A total of 5,763 new postgraduate students of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), enrolled in master’s and doctoral programs, attended the inaugural lecture of the PIONIR Postgraduate Lecture Series themed “Academic Integrity and Moral Responsibility: The Contribution of Postgraduate Students to Indonesia” on Wednesday (Sep. 24) at Grha Sabha Pramana.
In her address, Professor Ova Emilia, Rector of UGM, emphasized that pursuing higher education provides an important opportunity for students to enhance their competencies in today’s competitive job market.
“Students must develop a wide range of competencies needed for the future,” she said.
The rector further noted that universities are not only tasked with advancing knowledge but also with producing graduates who are critical thinkers with integrity.
According to her, Universitas Gadjah Mada is committed to instilling three pillars in all students: the people-centered pillar, the independence pillar, and the sustainability pillar.
“These three pillars are what we truly want to instill in all of us, including you, who have just joined Universitas Gadjah Mada, and they will continue to shape whatever we do in the future,” she explained.
Vice-Rector for Student Affairs, Community Service, and Alumni, Dr. Arie Sujito, reminded students to uphold the tradition of critical thinking.
“Studying at Universitas Gadjah Mada is not only about academics. UGM is committed to developing a tradition of critical thinking,” he stated.
Dr. Sujito also encouraged students to engage actively in education, research, and community service. These three elements, known as the tri-dharma of higher education, serve as a guiding principle at UGM.
“Knowledge must be able to solve problems, and UGM is committed to addressing the challenges faced by society,” he said.
Director of Student Affairs at UGM, Dr. Hempri Suyatna, highlighted that new students are expected not only to demonstrate intellectual ability but also to uphold moral integrity and social responsibility.
“You need to take initiative so that you can truly contribute to solving various social problems in society,” he conveyed.
Author: Jelita Agustine
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Photographer: Donnie Trisfian