The Faculty of Philosophy at Universitas Gadjah Mada (Philosophy UGM) organized a training program for MKWK lecturers and prospective lecturers from Aug. 9 to 10.
The event, held in collaboration with the Association of MKWK Institutions and Lecturers across Indonesia, was attended by 88 participants from 40 universities. These participants, who teach Pancasila and Citizenship courses, engaged in various sessions to enhance their ability to develop relevant and nationally standardized lesson plans.
Dean of Philosophy UGM, Dr. Siti Murtiningsih, stated that this training aims to equip MKWK lecturers and prospective lecturers to develop lesson plans relevant to the times’ challenges and align with national education standards.
Additionally, the dean emphasized that this training reflects UGM’s commitment, particularly to the Faculty of Philosophy, to advancing Pancasila and Citizenship education, a crucial foundation for shaping students’ character in Indonesia.
“Pancasila is not merely an ideological foundation, and Citizenship education is not just an ideological guide but also an ethical and moral guide for nation-building in every aspect of life. This highlights the importance of these courses,” said Dr. Murtiningsih on Friday (Aug. 9).
Dr. Murtiningsih mentioned that innovation and creativity are essential in designing lesson plans for Pancasila and Citizenship courses to make learning more engaging, relevant to the surrounding situation, and linked to the student’s fields of study.
“Educators need to be as innovative and creative as possible to ensure that the foundation and character building for students are effectively established. I believe that after participating in this training, you will gain many insights to support your educator role,” she explained.
The training covered various topics, including General Policies for MKWK Implementation in higher education, the Urgency of Pancasila Education, Contemporary Issues and Local Content in higher education, the History of Pancasila Thought Development, and Pancasila as the Foundation and Orientation for Science and Technology Development.
Participants also received materials on MKWK evaluation methods and syllabus development techniques.
Dr. Arqom Kuswanjono, a lecturer at the Faculty of Philosophy and Chair of the MKWK Institution Association, emphasized the need to strengthen national character through leadership commitment and higher education institutions, strengthening MKWK institutions, improving lecturer quality, reviewing and refining curricula, synergizing MKWK with other courses, and enhancing the academic environment. According to him, this reinforcement is necessary for character building in students.
“What we expect from MKWK is the ability to think critically and creatively, collaborate, communicate, and engage in deep and comprehensive thinking,” said Dr. Kuswanjono.
In another session, Dr. Heri Santoso discussed the learning outcomes for Pancasila and Citizenship Courses and the innovations that make Pancasila and Citizenship Education more enjoyable and meaningful in higher education.
“Innovation can be applied in various aspects, ranging from the curriculum or learning materials, teaching methods, facilities, and infrastructure to the learning environment,” Dr. Santoso stated.
The 32-hour training for Pancasila and Citizenship course lecturers is designed according to the Directorate General of Higher Education (Dikti) standards.
The training includes face-to-face learning sessions, both offline and online, independent assignments, and a presentation session showcasing lesson plans, sample teaching materials, and educational videos. Through these various methods, participants are allowed to develop relevant practical skills that can be immediately applied in the teaching process.
Author: Philosophy UGM/Gloria
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Afif