Prof. Agus’ speech was “The Role of Immersive Learning in Enhancing Technology-Centric Education in the New Era of Society 5.0”. He emphasized the necessity of technology-driven educational transformation.

The Role of Immersive Learning in Modern Education

His speech highlighted six key aspects. It focused on the role of technology in immersive learning, digital-based innovations, and their integration into future curricula. He stressed that educational innovation goes beyond technology; it also involves curriculum design and teaching methods. These aspects help students understand complex concepts through virtual reality (VR) simulations.

“Immersive technology is a fundamental pillar of modern education. Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) can create engaging and in-depth learning environments,” Prof. Agus stated.

These technologies enhance student engagement and provide a holistic learning experience, strengthening comprehension through interactive digital platforms.

Case Studies: Immersive Learning in Action

During his speech, Prof. Agus presented several case studies demonstrating immersive learning’s impact. One notable example from Finland showed that VR integration in STEM programs improved material comprehension by 30%.

“Immersive technology has proven to be an effective tool in enhancing critical thinking and problem-solving skills,” he noted.

However, despite its promising potential, challenges remain.

Challenges and Proposed Solutions

The Digital Divide is one of the biggest obstacles in implementing immersive learning. Many learners lack access to adequate devices and stable internet connections. This digital divide limits opportunities for students in underprivileged areas.

To address these issues, Prof. Agus proposed continuous teacher training and equitable access to digital infrastructure. He emphasized that bridging the gap requires strong collaboration between educational institutions and the government.

Future Curriculum and Educational Transformation

Prof. Agus asserted that future curricula should integrate immersive learning to strengthen academic knowledge. He emphasized its role in enhancing 21st-century skills such as creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking.

He expressed his hope that immersive technology would soon be widely adopted in Indonesia’s education system.

“Collaboration between the government, educational institutions, and industries is essential. It helps cultivate a more innovative young generation ready to face global challenges,” he concluded.

UNS’s Commitment to Quality Education

The inauguration of Prof. Agus Efendi as a professor in Educational Technology reaffirms UNS’s commitment to high-quality education. It reflects the university’s dedication to meeting modern needs. As Indonesia transitions towards Society 5.0, universities must take a leading role in digital transformation.

This initiative also supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 4: Quality Education. It reinforces UNS’s dedication to educational excellence in the digital age.

HUMAS UNS

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Academic Background and Achievements

Born in Kebumen, Prof. Ofita has an extensive academic background. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) Yogyakarta. She then obtained her master’s degree from Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) Surabaya. Later, she obtained her Ph.D. from the University of Edinburgh. Throughout her career, she has actively participated in various organizations. She has also received prestigious awards, including the Urban Studies Foundation International Fellowship. Additionally, the London School of Economics and Political Science honored her with the LSE Senior Visiting Fellowship.

Urban Planning and Power Structures

During her speech, Prof. Ofita explored the relationship between urban planning and power. She compared the spatial structures of Solo and Yogyakarta, emphasizing the role of the palace in each city’s development. While both cities share similar layouts, the influence of the palace differs significantly. She referenced Kim Dovey’s theory of visibility and invisibility in urban architecture. She explained how highlighting or concealing certain elements reflects power structures.

For example, the statue of Slamet Riyadi in Solo appears more dominant than the gate of the Kasunanan Palace. This visual hierarchy symbolizes shifts in the city’s power dynamics. In addition to physical elements, she highlighted the role of city festivals in maintaining power structures. One notable event, the Grebeg Astana Oetara festival in Solo, reinforces the influence of Mangkunegaran through cultural rituals.

“Festivals and celebrations are not just traditions. They serve as mechanisms to sustain legitimacy and the palace’s role in public spaces,” she stated.

The Concept of Royal Agency

Prof. Ofita introduced the concept of royal agency. It refers to the active role of monarchies in urban development across Southeast Asia. According to her, royal institutions influence not only culture but also economic and political sectors.

“We can see how the Crown Property Bureau in Thailand manages vast assets. We can also observe how the Sultan of Johor plays a role in the Forest City project in Malaysia. These examples show that monarchy remains relevant in contemporary urban dynamics,” she explained.

Contributions to Architectural Studies

Her research fills a gap in architectural studies, which have largely been shaped by perspectives from the Global North. Through collaborations with international scholars, she aims to further examine how royal agency influences urban development in Southeast Asia. With her inauguration, she reaffirms her commitment to advancing architectural knowledge. She focuses particularly on understanding the relationship between power and urban planning.

“By adopting this approach, we can view urban spaces not just as places for living and activities but also as representations of evolving social structures and power dynamics,” she concluded.

Humas UNS

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Prof. Risa was born in Bandung. He pursued his higher education at Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB). He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Physics in 1997, followed by a Master’s degree in 2000. He then continued his doctoral studies in Quantum Engineering at Nagoya University, Japan, successfully obtaining his Ph.D. in 2007.

Extensive International Collaboration and Teaching Experience

Throughout his academic career, Prof. Risa has gained valuable international teaching experience. He has lectured at Cukyou Women’s University in Japan. He has also collaborated on research projects with renowned institutions, including Université du Littoral Côte d’Opale (ULCO) in France, Tokyo University, and Nagoya University in Japan. In Indonesia, he has worked with the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN).

Additionally, Prof. Risa has served as a visiting professor and researcher at ULCO in France. He has also contributed to Applied Physics at Nagoya University in Japan and The Polytechnic Institute of Bragança in Portugal. Since 2024, he has held the position of Head of the Sub-Laboratory Management Section. He serves in this role at the Integrated Laboratory Unit of UNS.

Scientific Oration on Surface Modification in Nanotechnology

During his inaugural speech at the G.P.H. Haryo Mataram Auditorium, Prof. Risa delivered a scientific oration. His presentation was titled “The Role of Surface Modification in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology.” He emphasized the importance of surface science research. This field examines physical and chemical phenomena at the interface of two phases, such as solid-liquid and solid-gas.

One notable application of this research is the development of hydrophobic coatings for car windshields. These coatings improve visibility in wet conditions by allowing water to flow off easily.

Contributions to Research and Material Technology

Prof. Risa’s research focuses on surface modification in nanoscience and nanotechnology. One of his key studies explores metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs). His findings indicate that a 30 nm-thick layer of Palladium Silicide (Pd₂Si) can reduce parasitic resistance. This improvement enhances computer processor performance.

He has also investigated silicon carbide (SiC) substrates, which are highly suitable for growing gallium nitride (GaN). GaN is a primary material in blue light-emitting diode (LED) technology. Since SiC substrates are expensive, he developed a cost-effective method using molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). With this approach, he successfully created a 7,920-layer SiC film at 825°C.

In optoelectronics, Prof. Risa has advanced porous silicon (PSi) technology through electrochemical anodization and reactive ion etching (RIE). His research demonstrated that PSi with uniform pores enhances photoresponse stability in optoelectronic devices. Further studies explored its potential as a substrate for ZnO nanofibers and nanorods. These materials can be applied in solar cell technology.

In sensor technology, he developed a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) modified with a polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) layer. His findings indicate that PVAc nanofibers exhibit higher sensitivity than thin films. This is especially evident in detecting ecstasy precursors, with a detection limit as low as 0.7 ppm.

A Role Model in Research and Innovation

With his extensive contributions to Electronic Material Physics, Prof. Risa inspires students and young researchers. His work continues to drive advancements in research and innovation in Indonesia. UNS takes great pride in having him as a dedicated academic contributing to the global development of science and technology.

Humas UNS

Reporter: R. P. Adji
Editor: Dwi Hastuti

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The inauguration ceremony took place at G.P.H. Haryo Mataram Auditorium. The inaugural speech titled “Enhancing the Role of Islamic Law as Living Law in the Development of a People-Based Economy.” He emphasized that Islamic law plays a crucial role in fostering an economy based on public welfare. This is especially important in contrast to the dominance of liberal and capitalist economic systems.

Academic and Professional Journey

Originally from Boyolali, Prof. Burhanudin earned his undergraduate degree in Law from FH UNS. He later pursued a Master’s degree in Islamic Law at Universitas Indonesia (UI). Additionally, he earned another Master’s degree in Islamic Finance at Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Sunan Kalijaga. He obtained his Ph.D. in Law from Universiti Utara Malaysia.

In addition to his academic achievements, Prof. Burhanudin has held several key managerial positions, including:

• Head of the Master’s Program in Notarial Law (2013–2019)
• Head of the UNS Central Library (2019–2024)
• Deputy Chairman II of the Indonesian Association of Islamic Law Lecturers (ADHII) (2015–2020)
• Head of Research at the Indonesian Association of Islamic Economics Lecturers (APPHEISI) (2014–2019)

His contributions have significantly shaped the development of Islamic legal studies and Islamic finance in Indonesia.

Islamic Law as a Living Law in a People-Based Economy

Prof. Burhanudin explained that Islamic law is a “living law”, meaning it is deeply embedded in societal practices. Eugen Ehrlich introduced this concept. Eugen Ehrlich suggests that Islamic law operates independently of state regulations and has guided societies long before modern states emerged.

Even in non-Muslim-majority countries, Islamic law holds legal recognition. Countries such as the United Kingdom, France, the United States, Singapore, Thailand, and Philippines incorporate it into their legal systems.

“In a people-based economy, Islamic law offers solutions to the injustices of liberal and capitalist economic systems. These systems have significantly widened social inequalities. Islamic law plays a key role in both public (social) economics and business,” Prof. Burhanudin stated.

The Role of Islamic Law in Public Economics

Islamic law contributes significantly to public economics through waqf (endowment), zakat (almsgiving), infak (charitable donations), and sedekah (voluntary giving). These mechanisms effectively redistribute wealth and help reduce economic disparities.

Several prominent organizations, including Muhammadiyah and Nahdlatul Ulama, have used waqf land to establish:

• Schools
• Hospitals
• Shopping centers
• Office buildings

The revenue generated from these assets supports underprivileged communities. Additionally, cash waqf and ZIS funds (zakat, infak, and sedekah) provide free education and scholarships for those in need.

The Role of Islamic Law in Business and Finance

Islamic law has led to the establishment of Sharia-compliant financial institutions, including:

• Baitul Maal wa Tamwil (BMT)
• Islamic banks
• Islamic bonds (sukuk)
• Islamic stock markets
• Islamic mutual funds
• Islamic insurance
• Islamic pawnshops

These institutions serve as alternative financial solutions for communities lacking access to conventional banking systems.

As of 2019, Indonesia had approximately 4.500 BMTs, catering primarily to lower- and middle-income communities.

Islamic Law as the Foundation for a Sustainable Economy

Islamic law is highly adaptable, allowing it to evolve alongside societal changes. The flexibility of Islamic business law fosters economic innovation while maintaining principles of justice and social welfare.

Prof. Burhanudin emphasized the need to integrate Islamic legal principles into business practices. He encouraged wider applications of Islamic law in economic transactions, ensuring its relevance in a people-based economy.

With his appointment as Professor of Islamic Law, scholars and policymakers expect Prof. Burhanudin to continue contributing to academia and policy-making. His expertise is essential for implementing socially just economic policies in Indonesia.

Humas UNS

Reporter:R. P. Adji
Editor: Dwi Hastuti

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In his inaugural speech, Prof. Fahru discussed the role of organic solar cell materials. The speech was titled “Development of Natural Materials in Solar Cell Innovation as a Low-Carbon Energy Source.” He emphasized their importance in advancing sustainable energy. His appointment marks him as the 35th professor at FMIPA and the 336th at UNS.

Advancing Organic Solar Cell Technology

Prof. Fahru explained that photovoltaic technology converts solar energy into electricity through solar cells. Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells (DSSC) represent the third generation of solar cells. These photoelectrochemical devices absorb sunlight using dyes and convert it into electrical energy.

One crucial component of DSSC is the dye sensitizer. It absorbs solar photon energy at the molecular level. Then, it excites the energy into excitons. Most DSSC applications use synthetic and natural dyes. While synthetic dyes offer high efficiency (around 11–12%), they are expensive to produce.

Exploring Natural Dyes for DSSC Efficiency

The high cost of synthetic dyes has led researchers to explore natural alternatives. They extract these dyes from plants, including leaves, fruits, and flowers. Several natural pigments, such as anthocyanins, chlorophyll, and carotenoids, have proven effective for DSSC applications.

“Natural dyes have multiple advantages,” Prof. Fahru stated. “They are widely available in nature, offer various pigment colors, are cost-effective, and require simple processing techniques. Most importantly, they are environmentally friendly.”

His research team worked on modifying natural dyes by expanding their absorption wavelengths through dye combinations. This method significantly improved DSSC efficiency. A combination of chlorophyll from spinach and anthocyanin from rose petals improved DSSC efficiency. The efficiency increased from 0,117% and 0,11% (single dyes) to 0,58%. This result was nearly four times higher.

Enhancing DSSC Performance with Metal Integration

Further research combined anthocyanin from dragon fruit peel, betalain from bougainvillea flowers, and chlorophyll from cassava leaves. This technique tripled DSSC efficiency compared to using single dyes.

Additionally, incorporating silver (Ag) metal into the natural dye combination enhanced DSSC efficiency. The efficiency increased to 1,7%, which was five times higher than single-dye efficiency. “This modification proves that DSSCs can achieve high efficiency at low cost while supporting low-carbon energy development,” Prof. Fahru emphasized.

Supporting Sustainable Energy Goals

Prof. Fahru’s research aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It is SDG 7, Affordable and Clean Energy. In addition, it also supports SDG 9, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

His work contributes to innovations in material technology, particularly in organic solar cells. By utilizing natural resources, this research paves the way for clean, affordable, and sustainable energy solutions.

Through continuous advancements, organic solar cells hold great potential for revolutionizing renewable energy while reducing environmental impact.

HUMAS UNS

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Prof. Dr. Sayekti Wahyuningsih, S.Si. M.Si., is the 241^st professor in UNS and 19^th professor in FMIPA UNS. Her inauguration ceremony was titled Photocatalyst Material: Challenges and Potential for Development in Indonesia. In her press release, Prof. Sayekti explained that literally, photo means the energy of light, and catalyst means the compound/matter that initiates a reaction. Therefore, the photocatalyst is the reaction that occurs with the help of light. Photocatalyst materials absorb light energy as a source of electronic transition (electron transfer) from the basic to the excitation state. The basic condition of photocatalyst material of semiconductors is the valance band (VB), and the excitation condition is the conduction band (CB).

The photocatalyst technology is a green technology that is appropriate for tropical areas with large sunlight exposure. Prof. Sayekti added that her Inorganic Materials research group focuses on inorganic materials, separation, purification, nano-material synthetic and composite, and inorganic materials functionalizing. These studies then directed for the development of photocatalyst materials, DSSC’s, self-cleaning materials, drug delivery system, and separation technology. “At least three natural sources are developed for photocatalyst materials, iron sand, silica sand, and ilmenite,” Prof. Sayekti explained in a press conference in Ruang Sidang 2 dr. Prakosa Building UNS, Tuesday (14/12/2021).

Prof. Ir. Agung Tri Wijayanta, S.T., M.Eng., Ph.D., is the 242^nd professor in UNS and 19^th professor in FT UNS. His inauguration speech was titled The Role of Thermofluids Science in Improving Thermal Performance Towards Environmentally Friendly Energy Saving. Prof. Agung explained that the International Energy Agency (IEA) reported in the Outlook Energy 2021 that currently, 30% of global energy is consumed by housing and commercial buildings. High-rise building consumes around 60% of global electrical energy for air conditioning and water heater that consume a higher amount of electrical energy.

In the context of Indonesia, Prof. Agung explained that the increase in population and improved infrastructure would lead to an increase in demand for air conditioning and energy consumption. This condition, combined with the fluctuating electricity consumption, causes complicated power supply production from renewable sources such as solar panels and winds turbines. Thus, the dependence on fossil fuels will continue to grow. However, the government has declared the development of Energy Mix from 5% of 166 MTOE (Million tonnes of oil equivalent) in 2015 from renewable energy sources to 31% from 1.012 MTOE in 2050.

Thermofluids, Prof. Agung’s expertise, discusses the flow of fluids, its energy content, and its movement in the flow after considering environmental sustainability. “Sustainability with positive impact and environmentally friendly is vital. Thus, with my fellows in Mechanical Engineering Program, we established a Sustainable Thermofluids research group in 2016 to study the main supporting knowledge comprehensively, Thermodynamics, Heat Transfer, and Fluid Mechanics. These are essentials for Mechanical ENgineering,” Prof. Agung explained.

Further, Prof. Agung explained that thermofluids could become an alternative to energy-saving and achieving environmentally friendly sustainable energy. Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, thermofluids is also expected to be a successful effort in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2030 to alleviate poverty, reduce inequality, and protect the environment. “Thermofluids knowledge, again contributed in a real science is our expectation, taking a role in Indonesia energy resilience while considering the environmentally friendly aspect,” Prof. Agung added.

Prof. Dr. Agus Supriyanto, S.Si., M.Si., is the 243^rd professor in UNS and 20^th professor in FMIPA UNS. He delivered an inauguration speech on The Role of DSSC-Based Solar Cell Material in New Renewable Energy Innovation Towards Energy Transition. The speech was based on the challenges on energy, environmental, and security issues that will be faced by Indonesia. The energy transition towards the Net Zero Emission (NZE) in 2060 or earlier is Indonesia’s commitment to transforming its economy based on clean and sustainable renewable energy sources. One of the four agreed points in The Conference of Parties (COP)-26 di Glasgow Scotland focuses on energy transition and environmentally friendly processes, demanding Indonesia to reduce its carbon emission while increasing its energy production. To achieve this objective, a concept of energy transition that replace fossil-based fuels and provide environmentally friendly energy sources that reduce greenhouse emission needs to be mapped.

Solar cells are a tool that converts energy from sunlight into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. The first generation of solar cells was made from silicon and germanium or inorganic solar cells (SSA), followed by the dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) as an alternative for sunlight energy conversion to electrical energy. DSSC received increasing research interest recently because it applied the photosynthesis concept in plants. This process converted sunlight into chemical energy in which the generated electrons are targeted to acceptors.

However, despite the increasing interest from the research community, the development of DSSC into prototypes needs further studies and standardized assessment of the characteristics of the transparent solar cell. Prof. Agus also mentioned that a multidisciplinary approach is essential in this study, and inter-institutions collaboration is needed to develop a transparent solar cell prototype. “Especially in combining the science and technology and the advantages of natural potentials in creating added values for nanotechnology and economic fields.” Prof. Agus also emphasized that the opportunity for novelty, research, journal publication, and patent are widely available for DSSC solar cell technology.

Prof. Dr. Ir. Eddy Triharyanto, M.P., is the 244^th professor in UNS and 37^th professor in FP UNS. He delivered an inauguration speech on The Role of Planting Materials in Improving Horticultural Productivity and Quality. Horticultural is a combination of science, technology, arts, and economy as a branch of agronomy with four types olericulture (vegetable plants), pomology or fruticulture (fruit plants), floriculture (flower plants), and biopharmaceuticals (herbal plants). Modern horticultural farming developed based on the scientifical development that produce technology to produce and handle horticultural commodities in generating economic benefits.

Horticultural products have high demand and diverse product variety. From fresh to processed products because these products provide essential nutrients for people. To meet the standard from the World Health Organization (WHO), fruit consumption per capita should be higher than 200 grams or 50 Kcal per day and 250 grams or 62.5 Kcal per day for vegetables. In the case of Indonesia, fruit consumption is far below the WHO standard, with an increase of 15% in the last ten years from 39.44 Kcal to 45.37 Kcal. A similar condition is reported on vegetable consumption with an average of 29 to 39 kcal per person per day.

“Generally, in horticultural farming, the selection of high-quality planting material is the key to success in increasing the productivity and quality of horticultural products. Therefore, developing the national seeding industry should receive more attention from all parties,” Prof. Eddy stated. Humas UNS

Reporter: Dwi Hastuti

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Soetrisno provides solutions through psycho-curative intervention, which is summarized in Psychocurative Smart Book Stress Primigradiva. The book can be used as a reference in dealing with stress in Primigradiva pregnancy (first pregnancy) which is stronger than multigravida (pregnant ≥ 2) due to lack of experience.

“I created the guidebook I call the Psychocurative Smart Book of Primigavida Birth Stress which contains cognitive, social, spiritual, and physical support that can reduce the intensity of stress, it can even be a condition of eustress,” Soetrisno told a news conference at Ikan Goreng Cianjur Restaurant, Solo, Monday (22/1/2018).

Psychocurative is a treatment effort created with the aim of ensuring that people have a better chance of adapting themselves to their psychological condition and situation and building harmonious and integral relationships to improve psychological stability and survival.

“We can build a harmonious and integral relationship to improve the stability of psychological and life skills, including to pregnant women,” explained Soetrisno who is inaugurated as Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology Faculty of Medicine UNS at open senate session on January 25^th, 2018.

From the results of his research, Soetrisno explained that the provision of psychocurative in pregnant women, especially primigravida gives the effect of decreasing the stress intensity of pregnancy and childbirth while increasing the normal birth. In addition, psychocurative effect on the biological conditions of pregnant women, cortisol, HSP 60, 70, 90 peripheral blood serum that affects muscle The uterus becomes stronger to give birth normally. Psychocurative stress primigravida also can change the condition of pregnant women distress into eustress, and feasible applied to pregnant women in the face of childbirth.

“In my study psychokuratif proved to increase normal birth and can shorten the time of delivery. Psychokuratif done by midwives who have been practicing, start pregnant 32 weeks / 8 months until the opening of the opening 2-3cm with a dose of once a week together with all pregnant women in the hospital, 3x a week individually at home each with a duration of 60 minutes, “said Soetrisno. humas-red.uns/Sav/Isn

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