UNS — The Rector of Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta, Prof. Jamal Wiwoho, states that the implementation of face to face learning (PTM) must be conducted gradually and conditionally. This effort aims to reduce the students’ mobility and to prevent the occurrence of a new Covid-19 cluster in the campus area. “Before implemented gradually, it must meet the conditional requirement, the requirement includes permission from the Covid-19 Task Force. We never missed coordination with the Ministry (Kemendikbud) and Regional Government (Surakarta City Government),” Prof. Jamal states after a Press Conference on 45th UNS Anniversary, Friday (5/2/2021). Further, Prof. Jamal adds that gradual implementation will involve a classroom division system and a limited lecture period for students coming to the campus.
With the two aspects in mind, Prof. Jamal explains that later during the day there will only be two classes available for students. During the PTM students with divided into two categories (the odd and even number) based on their Student Identification Number (NIM). This division will determine the class they have to attend. “Half of the students study on the campus and the rest will join a virtual class. We will switch the students, those with an odd number will join the PTM at the beginning of the semester, then after the mid-semester examination those with even numbers will take a turn,” he explains.
Concerning this matter, UNS will also limit the class lecture period. The maximum duration for one-semester credit is 30 minutes, this applies in multiples according to the number of credits taken by students in one course. “For instance, if a program has a total of 100 students, thus 50 students can join the classroom lecture, this equal 50 percent. Those 50 students will be divided into two classes, therefore the maximum number of students in a class is 25. Moreover, for a course with one semester credit the maximum class lecture is 30 minutes, thus, if a course consists of 2 credits, then the total time allowed is 60 minutes,” Prof. Jamal adds.
When asked regarding whether UNS will actually realize PTM in 2021, Prof. Jamal states that he and the Vice-Rector for Academic and Student Affairs, Prof. Ahmad Yunus, are ready if the Covid-19 Task Force and the Surakarta Government issue permission to start PTM. The decision to postpone PTM itself is to respect the decision and recommendation issued by the Covid-19 Task Force and the Surakarta Government.
“Thus, at least we comply. It is inappropriate if we are in Central Java, especially in Solo, if we conduct PTM. Because the Covid-19 is a pandemic. We strive to not take a wrong policy and causing spikes in Covid-19 patients because of our activities,” he concluded. Humas UNS
Reporter: Yefta Christopherus AS
Editor: Dwi Hastuti