The primary objective was to discuss key issues in higher education, share work programs, and explore potential areas for collaboration. This initiative reflects the commitment of both institutions to advance academic excellence and innovation.

Strengthening Synergy Between Institutions

Prof. Dr. Ir. Purwanto, DEA., Chair of the Board of Professors of Undip, led the Undip delegation. Secretary Prof. Dr. Denny Nugroho Sugianto, S.T., M.Si., and several senior professors joined the delegation. Prof. Drs. Suranto Tjiptowibisono, M.Sc., Ph.D., Chair of the UNS Board of Professors, welcomed the Undip delegation. Secretary Prof. Dr. Ir. Maria Theresia Sri Budiastuti, M.Si., and other senior professors also joined the welcome.

During the meeting, both boards explored potential partnerships in various fields. These include research, publications, and academic events. Prof. Purwanto emphasized that the visit aimed to build long-term synergy in advancing the quality of higher education.

“We hope to collaborate with UNS. Through this visit, we wish to gain valuable insights that can be applied at Undip,” he stated.

Prof. Suranto also expressed appreciation for the visit.

“We thank our colleagues from Undip for their presence. As legal entity state universities (PTNBH) in Central Java, we hope this meeting fosters productive collaboration,” he remarked.

Exploring Collaborative Programs and Shared Vision

On the same occasion, Prof. Maria Theresia highlighted the key role of the UNS Board of Professors. She referred to Article 55 Paragraph (3) of Government Regulation Number 56 of 2020 on PTNBH UNS. She also presented various programs the board had undertaken in 2024.

Furthermore, both parties discussed specific collaborative initiatives. These included co-authoring academic books, inviting each other as guest speakers, producing joint podcasts, and launching other academic programs. The session fostered mutual understanding and outlined concrete steps for future cooperation.

As a result, Prof. Suranto expressed optimism that this visit would strengthen the partnership between the two institutions. He also hoped it would serve as a foundation for broader, more sustainable cooperation in the future. This initiative aligns with the 17th Sustainable Development Goal (SDG): Partnerships for the Goals. Humas UNS

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This prestigious event gathered government officials, central bank governors, and leaders of international institutions. It also brought together private sector executives, NGO representatives, and academics from across the globe.

Prof. Wimboh attended the forum in his capacity as an economist and a professor representing UNS.

Highlight of the Global Economy Panel Discussion

Prof. Wimboh emphasized a particularly engaging session titled “Debate on the Global Economy: Growth and Resilience in an Uncertain World.” He highlighted the session’s importance in addressing global economic challenges.

“Many participants highly anticipated this panel session because it addressed economic situations in major countries. The discussion covered the United Kingdom, Germany, the United States, and Argentina. The panel especially focused on the impact of President Trump’s tariff policies,” Prof. Wimboh explained.

The panel featured several prominent figures from the international economic and financial sectors. There were as follows:

• Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the IMF
• Kristin J. Forbes, Professor of Global Economics and Management at MIT
• Jörg Kukies, Germany’s Federal Minister of Finance
• Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer of the United Kingdom
• Federico Sturzenegger, Argentina’s Minister of Deregulation and State Transformation

Many countries expressed deep concern regarding the potential implementation of tariff policies. However, Prof. Wimboh stressed that every nation must strengthen its domestic policies. He pointed out that many have overlooked these policies.

He underscored the importance of efficiency, bureaucratic reform, and deregulation as national priorities. These measures aim to cushion the effects of a possible global tariff war. Argentina, for instance, has established a special Ministry of Deregulation. However, skepticism remains about the effectiveness of such initiatives in mitigating the consequences of President Trump’s policies.

Perspectives from Key Global Economists

Kristalina Georgieva expressed confidence that each country’s domestic policies would be sufficient to mitigate the risks of a trade war. Moreover, she emphasized that the global economy would become more resilient. She believed this would happen if the United Kingdom and Europe, represented by Germany, could reunite within the European Union.

On the other hand, Kristin Forbes voiced doubts. She argued that national policies alone might not fully offset the negative impacts caused by President Trump’s tariff measures.

These discussions reflect the complexity and uncertainty surrounding global economic resilience amid shifting international trade policies.

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UNS held the symbolic tree planting near UNS Lake on Thursday (10/4/2025), then continued with plantings at each professor’s faculty. This initiative highlights UNS’s ongoing commitment to creating a green and sustainable campus.

Strengthening UNS’s Environmental Commitment

Prof. Drs. Suranto Tjiptowibisono, M.Sc., Ph.D., Chair of the UNS Board of Professors, emphasized the importance of environmental preservation. He stated that the event was part of the university’s long-term effort to promote a green campus. It also aimed to contribute to climate change mitigation.

“This tree planting represents UNS’s commitment to environmental sustainability. It’s more than an anniversary celebration. It’s a meaningful action to raise awareness about the need to protect nature for future generations,” Prof. Suranto said.

By involving 58 professors in this initiative, UNS demonstrates its dedication to both academic excellence and environmental responsibility. The university hopes that this event will spark a broader movement toward greener campuses across the country.

The professors planted a variety of trees, each selected for its ecological and social benefits. Their participation also aims to inspire other academic institutions to take similar steps toward environmental care.

Professors Share Meaningful Tree Choices

UNS Rector, Prof. Dr. Hartono, dr., M.Si., expressed his deep appreciation for the professors’ involvement. He highlighted that planting trees reflects the university’s core values—responsibility, sustainability, and local wisdom.

“In the face of global climate change, universities must lead by example. We have both a moral and scientific duty to take real action,” he remarked.

He added that each tree planted represents hope. “We hope for a greener UNS. We also hope that the knowledge we cultivate will grow to benefit both the nation and the world,” he said.

Prof. Hartono also urged that this activity should not end as a ceremonial event. “Let this be a tradition that we grow together,” he concluded.

Prof. Dra. Ani Rakhmawati, M.A., Ph.D., from the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP), was among the participating professors. Prof. Ir. Ary Setyawan, M.Sc., Ph.D., from the Faculty of Engineering (FT), also took part in the event. Prof. Ani planted a Mulwo tree (Annona reticulata L.), while Prof. Ary planted a Duku tree.

Prof. Ani noted the symbolic value of planting fruit trees. “UNS already has many lush trees, so this time, we chose fruit-bearing trees to attract birds and wildlife. Mulwo is also a rare fruit nowadays, which is why I chose it. God willing, I’ll take care of it so it thrives,” she said. Prof. Ary explained the meaning behind his choice. “When you peel the Duku fruit, its flesh resembles Arabic script. Planting a Duku tree symbolizes planting knowledge—allowing it to grow and benefit future generations,” he explained.

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As the Dean of FMIPA, Prof. Desi is the 37th Professor at FMIPA and the 356th at UNS. During her inaugural speech, she delivered a lecture titled “Renewable Biopolymers from Eugenol and Anethole: Synthesis, Modification, and Applications.” Her research focuses on developing environmentally friendly biopolymers by utilizing renewable natural resources.

Advancing Sustainable Polymer Science

Prof. Desi highlighted the crucial role of polymer materials in modern life. Their widespread applications come from their beneficial properties. These include chemical resistance, impact strength, lightweight nature, and ease of molding. However, most polymers today originate from non-renewable resources, which are non-biodegradable and contribute to environmental pollution. To address this issue, she emphasized the need for renewable natural resources to enhance polymer sustainability.

“Biopolymers encompass both natural and synthetic polymers derived from renewable materials. The synthesis of polymers using natural compounds aligns with green chemistry principles and has gained significant attention,” Prof. Desi stated.

Her research explores Eugenol and Anethole-based polymers and their modifications. Eugenol, an aromatic compound found in cloves, cinnamon, basil, and nutmeg, is highly abundant. Meanwhile, Anethole, a key component of fennel oil, also holds great potential. These polymers can undergo modifications through functional group functionalization, cross-linking, impregnation, and composite formation, offering diverse applications.

A Milestone in Academic Excellence

UNS Rector, Prof. Hartono, expressed his appreciation for this achievement. He emphasized that obtaining a Professorship is the highest academic honor and a responsibility to contribute knowledge for societal and national advancement.

“The journey to becoming a Professor is never easy. It requires perseverance, dedication, and continuous commitment to producing impactful scientific research,” he remarked.

Prof. Hartono also underscored the strategic role of Professors in addressing national challenges. Their expertise is expected to drive solutions to various societal issues and support national development efforts.

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Understanding Pseudo Civilization

In his speech, Prof. Bhimo defined “Pseudo Civilization” as a system designed to benefit specific groups while neglecting collective welfare. He explained that the current global economic structure, dominated by neoliberal policies, often leads to inequality, particularly in developing nations.

“Pseudo civilization creates a global economic system that benefits only a small group. As a result, developing countries become economically dependent on foreign debt and international capital flows. Additionally, trade policies controlled by developed nations further reinforce this dependence,” he stated.

He also criticized global institutions, including international trade organizations and donor agencies. He argued that these institutions enforce policies that do not always align with national interests. These conditions, he pointed out, weaken the bargaining position of developing countries in global negotiations.

The Role of Political Economy

To address these challenges, Prof. Bhimo emphasized the importance of a political economy perspective. He believes this approach provides a critical and comprehensive analysis of global economic issues. It takes into account social, cultural, political, and environmental factors.

“Political economy helps us understand that institutions, culture, and policies significantly influence economic prosperity,” he remarked.

He stressed that as a sovereign nation, Indonesia must develop economic policies prioritizing people’s welfare. These policies should align with Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution. They should also reduce reliance on global institutions that do not serve national interests.

Challenges and Strategies for Economic Sovereignty

Prof. Bhimo also addressed key challenges that hinder Indonesia’s economic sovereignty. These include dependency on foreign debt, privatization of strategic sectors favoring foreign entities, and limited public access to essential services. He highlighted the financial sector’s dominance as another significant issue.

“Pseudo civilization has made Indonesia structurally dependent on foreign debt, foreign investment, and consultancy agencies. This dependency weakens our control over economic policies and increases economic uncertainty due to global pressures. Many national elites prioritize international economic agreements over national economic sovereignty,” he explained.

To strengthen economic sovereignty, he proposed several strategies:

• Renegotiating international agreements to advocate for fairer trade policies.
• Developing domestic industries to create added value and reduce reliance on imports.
• Raising public awareness of globalization’s impact and promoting economic self-reliance.

Moving Towards Economic Sovereignty

In his closing remarks, Prof. Bhimo emphasized the importance of reducing structural dependence on the global system. He stated that this is crucial for achieving national economic sovereignty. He urged Indonesians to be more critical of global institutions, which often contribute to economic instability.

“Criticism and concrete solutions must serve as the foundation for economic sovereignty. This foundation should be based on Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution,” he concluded.

This inauguration marked a significant milestone for Prof. Bhimo Rizky Samudro. It was also an important moment for UNS as an academic institution committed to addressing global economic challenges. This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Number 8 “Decent Work and Economic Growth”.

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University leaders, lecturers, and guests attended the inauguration ceremony at the G.P.H. Haryo Mataram Auditorium. During the event, Prof. Wijang delivered his inaugural speech titled “Nature-Based Advanced Materials: A New Hope for Sustainability.”

Academic and Professional Background

Born in Surakarta, Prof. Wijang has a distinguished academic career. The P2I and Pertamina Scholarships funded his studies. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) between 1987 and 1993. He pursued his Master’s studies at UGM from 2000 to 2003 with support from the DIKTI Postgraduate Scholarship. He then completed his Doctoral studies at UGM from 2013 to 2018 through the same program.

His professional journey began in the industrial sector, working at PT Astra Agro Niaga (1993-1995) and PT Pison Agung (1995-1999). In 1999, he joined UNS as a lecturer at the Faculty of Engineering and has remained dedicated to academia. Since 2024, he has served as the Head of the Master’s Program in Mechanical Engineering at FT UNS.

Advancing Sustainable Materials

In his speech, Prof. Wijang addressed pressing global environmental challenges, including air pollution, water contamination, global warming, and resource depletion. He emphasized the urgent need for eco-friendly materials to mitigate environmental damage.

One promising solution is natural fiber composites. These materials blend plant fibers such as bamboo, sisal, and water hyacinth with polymer matrices. These materials are biodegradable and require less production energy. They offer an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic fibers like glass or carbon fiber.

However, challenges remain. Natural fiber composites exhibit variations in mechanical properties, high moisture absorption, and low compatibility with polymer matrices. To enhance their quality, researchers are modifying fiber surfaces through chemical and physical treatments. They are also integrating nanomaterials, such as nanocellulose and carbon nanotubes, to strengthen composite structures and improve durability. Additionally, researchers are exploring bio-based matrices like polylactic acid (PLA) as alternatives to non-biodegradable polymers.

Industry Applications and Economic Potential

Natural fiber composites have gained traction across various industries, including:

• Automotive: Used for interior panels and sound insulation to reduce vehicle weight and carbon footprint.
• Construction: Contributing to energy-efficient buildings.
• Healthcare: Applied in biodegradable medical implants and devices.

Indonesia can develop natural fiber composites by leveraging its abundant natural resources. However, researchers and industries must address challenges such as fiber quality variations and inefficient production technology. Prof. Wijang urged the government, industry, and academia to collaborate. He emphasized that their partnership is crucial for advancing the development and utilization of these materials.

A Sustainable Future

“Natural fiber composites offer a promising solution to environmental challenges while unlocking new economic opportunities,” Prof. Wijang stated. “Support from the government and industry is essential to expand these innovations.”

With strong collaboration, researchers and industries can use these sustainable materials to contribute to a greener future. As a professor, Prof. Wijang will drive research and innovation in nature-based advanced materials, benefiting both society and industry in Indonesia.

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Reporter: R. P. Adji
Editor: Dwi Hastuti

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Prof. Dr. Sapta Kunta Purnama is the Dean of the Faculty of Sports Sciences (FKOR) at Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta. He is also a professor of sports science and emphasized that exercising during fasting is highly recommended for maintaining health. Many professional athletes continue training during Ramadan without disrupting their worship.

Best Time to Exercise During Ramadan

According to Prof. Sapta, the ideal time to exercise is in the late afternoon, just before iftar. “This allows the body to receive immediate energy intake after physical activity,” he explained on Monday (3/3/2025).

Recommended Exercises While Fasting

Choosing the right type of exercise is crucial. Activities with light to moderate intensity are best, such as:

• Walking or brisk walking
• Jogging
• Cycling
• Aerobics
• Other low-impact workouts

However, avoid high-intensity exercises if the iftar is still far away. “Excessive sweating can lead to dehydration since fluid replacement must wait until iftar. Therefore, it is best to exercise closer to breaking the fast,” Prof. Sapta advised.

Essential Tips for Safe and Comfortable Exercise

Before exercising, always warm up to prevent injuries. Likewise, cooling down after workouts is equally important.

Maintaining a balanced diet during suhoor and iftar is key to staying energized. Proper hydration is also essential. “Drink water first when breaking the fast, followed by a warm sweet drink. Avoid consuming cold or iced beverages immediately,” Prof. Sapta recommended.

To ensure sufficient nutrition, consume foods rich in carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, protein, and fats. Proper food intake plays a significant role in maintaining fitness during fasting.

Additionally, pay close attention to your body. Stop exercising immediately if you feel dizzy, nauseous, have difficulty breathing, or experience chest pain. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, consult a doctor before starting any physical activity.

“For exercise duration, I suggest around 20-30 minutes,” Prof. Sapta concluded.

By following these expert tips, you can stay fit and healthy throughout Ramadan while observing your fast safely.

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The award ceremony took place at Sriwedari Stadium on Monday (17/2/2025) as part of Surakarta City’s 280th Anniversary celebration. Surakarta City Government recognized Prof. Prabang for his extensive research and innovative contributions to environmental management.

Over 15 Years of Dedication to Environmental Conservation

With more than 15 years of experience, Prof. Prabang has played a crucial role in environmental impact assessments (AMDAL). Additionally, he has contributed to environmental planning and assisted in drafting regulations for the Regional House of Representatives (DPRD). He currently serves as an expert at the Waste-to-Energy Processing Facility (PSEL) Putri Cempo. His work has significantly shaped Surakarta’s sustainable development efforts.

His achievements inspire both the academic community and younger generations to actively participate in environmental preservation. The award also underscores FMIPA UNS’s commitment to advancing research and sustainability efforts in Surakarta City.

A Recognized Leader in Environmental Research

Expressing his gratitude, Prof. Prabang stated, “I am delighted and honored by this recognition from the Surakarta City Government. This award emphasizes the academic contributions of FMIPA UNS to Surakarta’s development. I hope it inspires the younger generation to take an active role in environmental management.”

Beyond local contributions, Prof. Prabang has made a significant impact at the national level. In 2013, he was part of the Executive Board for the Clean Air Program for Smaller Cities (CASC GIZ Germany). It is leading Indonesia’s first emission inventory. Moreover, in 2021, the Ministry of Environment and Forestry recognized him as a pioneering registered forestry engineer.

Recognized Alongside Other Outstanding Figures

Prof. Prabang received this prestigious honor alongside six other individuals, all acknowledged for their outstanding contributions. The Mayor of Surakarta, Teguh Prakosa, personally presented the awards to each recipient.

Through his research and dedication, Prof. Prabang has become a role model in environmental conservation. His relentless efforts reinforce his status as an inspirational figure in Surakarta City. He encourages a future of sustainable and eco-friendly development.

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Prof. Supriyono is the 25th professor at FEB and the 347th at UNS. His inaugural speech was “Stakeholder Awareness in Conservation as a Foundation for Sustainable Development”. He emphasized the need for conservation-based economic growth. He highlighted its importance in ensuring environmental sustainability.

The Role of Conservation in Sustainable Development

During his speech, Prof. Supriyono highlighted the increasing global population and its impact on natural resources. According to him, human needs continue to expand while resources remain finite. As a result, excessive exploitation leads to environmental degradation. Therefore, conservation plays a crucial role in balancing economic, social, and environmental aspects.

“Sustainable development rests on three key pillars: economy, society, and the environment. The economic aspect focuses on resource efficiency and green technology. The social dimension ensures equity and public welfare. Meanwhile, the environmental aspect emphasizes ecosystem preservation through responsible resource management,” he explained.

Challenges and Solutions in Conservation

Prof. Supriyono identified several challenges to sustainable development, including low stakeholder awareness and declining environmental quality. These issues contribute to global warming, climate change, and environmental destruction. Therefore, stakeholders must take an active role in conservation efforts.

• Government: Responsible for creating policies and regulations that support environmental conservation.
• Private Sector: Encouraged to develop innovative and eco-friendly technologies.
• Communities: Particularly those reliant on natural resources, must engage in sustainable resource management.
• International Organizations: Play a role in setting global standards and providing sustainable funding.

“Soil and water conservation should be a top priority. Techniques such as terracing, watershed rehabilitation, and efficient irrigation systems help prevent land degradation. They also effectively address water shortages. Additionally, preserving ecosystems, such as forests and wetlands, helps mitigate climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide,” Prof. Supriyono added.

The Importance of Public Awareness

Raising public awareness is essential for effective conservation. Environmental education, stakeholder collaboration, and strong policy support are critical for sustainable implementation. Moreover, partnerships between various sectors can enhance conservation efforts, ensuring a balance between economic growth and ecological preservation.

These initiatives align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They specifically support Goal 13 on Climate Action and Goal 15 on Life on Land. By adopting a holistic approach, conservation challenges can be addressed, securing a sustainable future for generations to come.

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This workshop gathered the FKIP Curriculum Team and Heads of Study Programs from 48 departments. These included 25 undergraduate programs, 18 master’s programs, and 5 doctoral programs. Representatives from the study program curriculum teams also attended the event.

Strengthening Collaboration for an Effective OBE-Based Curriculum

The event was officially opened by Dr. Imam Sujadi, M.Si., Dean of FKIP UNS. In his opening remarks, he emphasized the workshop’s role as a platform for discussion and knowledge exchange.

“I hope this event serves as an opportunity for productive discussions. The insights and evaluations shared by our expert speaker will help refine the implementation of the OBE-based curriculum. This will ensure its effectiveness in academic settings,” Dr. Imam stated.

Expert Insights on Curriculum Development

The keynote speaker, Dr. Ir. Syamsul Arifin, M.T., is a renowned expert in higher education curriculum design. He delivered an in-depth presentation on evaluating and implementing OBE-based curricula. He also provided constructive assessments of the curriculum drafts developed by each study program, offering valuable recommendations for further improvement.

This initiative is a crucial step in aligning FKIP UNS curricula with global educational trends. It ensures that graduates meet the required competencies for both the workforce and industry demands.

Commitment to Quality Education and Sustainable Development

By enhancing curriculum planning and execution, FKIP UNS strengthens its commitment to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number four. It is promoting quality education through structured academic strategies. Additionally, this effort also supports SDG 17, which focuses on fostering partnerships to achieve educational excellence.

Through this workshop, FKIP UNS aims to ensure that academic programs remain relevant and competitive. The involvement of experts in curriculum development enhances academic governance. It also contributes to producing graduates who are well-equipped for the global workforce. By continuously refining the OBE-based curriculum, FKIP UNS reinforces its role as a leader in higher education excellence.

This workshop underscores UNS’s dedication to continuous improvement in education, paving the way for a dynamic and competency-based learning environment.

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