Commemorating the 1st Lustrum, Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM) of UGM still has homework that must be done. One of those is the strengthening of centers for studies at UGM. Although not fully under the supervision of LPPM, the performance of these centers requires special attention.
Internal Management Audit Report (AMI) mentions that centers for studies as part of LPPM is still low in performance. "It could be because they have to follow the Letter of Order from the Rector on the administration," said Senior Vice Rector for Academic, Research, and Community Service, Prof. Dr. Retno Sunarminingsih, M.Sc., Apt., on Friday (11/2) at the University Club of UGM.
Delivering her remarks at the commemoration, Retno hopes the quality assurance for research to emerge. This expectation is in line with the existence of the Office of Quality Assurance for academic affairs. "However, there is the need to audit the research performance of a center for studies. That the center prioritizes more on work projects than research result that should be able to support the learning activity, especially for the Graduate School," she said.
More encouraging news is shown by LPPM in cooperation with the industry. Although constrained by funding issues, LPPM research incubation center has successfully established cooperation with several industries in Jakarta.
Another achievement is the KKN PPM activity which was considered quite satisfactory. Almost every KKN period is followed by foreign students. "Almost every year it is always followed by 20 to30 (foreign) students, while the other internationalization of UGM is through the RCE," said Retno.
The commemoration is marked by the cutting of rice cone by the Senior Vice Rector. In addition, the event is celebrated with the launching of research books and retirement releasing ceremony by the Chairman of LPPM, Prof. Dr. Ir. Danang Parikesit, M.Sc.