Messages from Public Figures on the 34th Anniversary of Unisa Yogyakarta

Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Fauzan, emphasized the importance of universities to always be oriented towards the needs of society. He conveyed this in his speech at the 34th Open Senate Session of the Anniversary of Universitas ‘Aisyiyah (Unisa) Yogyakarta, at the Convention Hall of the Walidah Dahlan Mosque, Unisa Yogyakarta, on Tuesday (10/14/2025).

According to Fauzan, there are four important things that higher education institutions need to pay attention to in order to remain relevant and make a real contribution to the nation. First, higher education institutions must know what the community wants and needs. He emphasized that the existence of study programs in higher education institutions is a form of moral responsibility to address community issues.

“The community today needs certainty, including in terms of educational services. If higher education institutions can provide certainty of graduation, for example, a bachelor’s degree program can be completed in 3.5–4 years, then that becomes important information for parents to plan their family finances,” said Fauzan.

He gave the example of Unisa Yogyakarta, which has demonstrated its commitment to providing an education system that offers certainty to students.

Second, universities must be able to offer novelty and innovative excellence. Fauzan believes that institutional excellence should not only be assessed internally, but also introduced to the public in the form of tangible innovations. “Universities must continue to improvise and innovate. Innovation thrives in private higher education institutions because they are more independent,” he explained.

Third, higher education institutions need to have promised economic value, but not solely in a financial context. Fauzan emphasized that higher education institutions must also uphold humanitarian and humanistic values.

“Higher education institutions should not only produce excellent human resources, but also serve as centers of exemplary social life. Campuses must provide protection and space for growth for all their members, as well as foster social sensitivity,” he said.

Fourth, Fauzan emphasized the importance of creating comfort for the entire extended family on campus. According to him, a comfortable atmosphere will give rise to a model of communication that respects each other and strengthens shared dignity for the advancement of the nation. “This comfort is a small thing, but it is very important. From there, communication that respects each other and strengthens the spirit of nationalism will be born,” said Fauzan.

Meanwhile, the General Chairman of the Muhammadiyah Central Leadership, Haedar Nashir, also congratulated Unisa Yogyakarta on its anniversary, which has been running for more than three decades.

Haedar believes that the anniversary is not merely a ceremonial moment, but rather a reflection and encouragement to continue fostering a spirit of progress and excellence.

“Excellence is not only an administrative aspect, but must be reflected in the improvement of the quality of the implementation of the four pillars of higher education: education, research, community service, and strengthening Islam and Muhammadiyah,” said Haedar.

He hopes that the entire academic community of Unisa Yogyakarta can continue to foster an ethos of progress, a spirit of sharing knowledge, and building high competitive academic quality, so that they can make meaningful contributions to the people and the nation.

“This anniversary should be a catalyst for Unisa Yogyakarta to not only excel administratively and quantitatively, but also spiritually, intellectually, and humanely,” concluded Haedar.

Chairperson of PP ‘Aisyiyah, Salmah Orbayinah, said that the 34th anniversary of Unisa Yogyakarta is a momentum to improve the quality of Unisa Yogyakarta in all its services. “It is a reflection and evaluation for the academic community to move forward. Identifying existing challenges to achieve better results,” said Salmah.

Salmah also commended Unisa Yogyakarta’s achievements at the local, national, and international levels. These accomplishments were not only made by the institution but also by its faculty and students. “Good collaboration is key to improving the quality of Unisa Yogyakarta,” said Salmah.

Salmah emphasized that with conditions constantly changing, Unisa Yogyakarta is expected to adapt and innovate in order to remain relevant to the demands of the times. Unisa Yogyakarta is encouraged to become a center of academic excellence with distinctive characteristics.

“May it continue to progress, not only strengthening academics, but also nurturing young intellectuals who are outstanding and instilling good moral values. With great concern for society and the community. Maintaining existing excellence, working for the people and the nation,” said Salmah.

The Rector of Unisa Yogyakarta, Warsiti, said that the various achievements and innovations made throughout this year have not only strengthened Unisa Yogyakarta’s position at the national level but also demonstrated the university’s tangible contributions to community development, improving the quality of education, and advancing science and technology based on the values of Islam and Muhammadiyah.

“However, this journey is not over yet. There are still many challenges and opportunities awaiting us in the future. With a spirit of collaboration, professionalism, and sincerity, Unisa Yogyakarta will continue to be committed to growing into a university that is adaptive to the changing times, while remaining steadfast in its Islamic identity and dedication to the people,” said Warsiti.