This year’s anniversary carried the theme "Building a Collaborative Ecosystem in Science, Technology, Arts, and Humanities for Impactful and Sustainable Innovation." The event also featured a Scientific Oration by Dr. Fauzan Adziman, S.T., M.Eng., an academic with 20 years of experience in high-profile engineering projects, deep expertise in computational engineering, and an entrepreneurial background.

Additionally, awards were presented to educators (faculty members) in recognition of their contributions in teaching, research and innovation, community service, and institutional development.

The event also included the presentation of the Ganesa Wira Adiutama award, which is given to former leaders of ITB’s main governing bodies who recently completed their terms. Among the recipients were Ir. Yani Panigoro, M.M., Chairperson of ITB’s Board of Trustees (MWA) for the 2020–2025 period; Prof. Ir. Hermawan Kresno Dipojono, Ph.D., IPU., Chairperson of ITB’s Academic Senate (SA) for the 2020–2025 period; and Prof. Reini Wirahadikusumah, Ph.D., ITB’s Rector for the 2020–2025 period.

In his speech, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, Chairperson of ITB’s Board of Trustees (MWA), shared ITB’s vision of becoming a world-class university ranked among the top 150 globally. "ITB is committed to producing world-class graduates with a collaborative mindset and innovations focused on societal well-being," he stated.

Meanwhile, Prof. Edy Tri Baskoro, M.Sc., Ph.D., Chairperson of ITB’s Academic Senate (SA), emphasized that the 66th Dies Natalis marks a historic milestone, highlighting ITB’s longstanding commitment to excellence, innovation, and dedication in nation-building.

"Leadership transitions are part of a healthy institutional dynamic, and we are optimistic that under the leadership of the new Rector, Prof. Dr. Ir. Tatacipta Dirgantara, M.T., ITB will continue to grow and make an even greater impact on society and the world," said Prof. Edy.

On the other hand, ITB Rector Prof. Dr. Ir. Tatacipta Dirgantara, M.T., stressed the importance of a transdisciplinary approach in addressing contemporary challenges. "ITB must transform into a Fourth Generation University (4GU) that excels and creates impact by integrating various disciplines to develop innovative solutions for society," he stated.

As an institution undergoing a transition toward becoming a Fourth Generation University (4GU), he asserted that ITB can no longer rely solely on monodisciplinary or even multidisciplinary approaches. "We must break the boundaries between disciplines and create a more unified integration of knowledge through a transdisciplinary approach," he said.

According to Prof. Tatacipta, this approach is crucial for solving complex issues such as climate change, global health, food security, artificial intelligence, and the sustainability of national industries. "By fostering collaboration between the humanities, arts, design, technology, and science, ITB’s role in sustainable national development will become even more relevant," he added.

During the 66th Dies Natalis commemoration, Indonesia’s Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Mendiktisaintek), Prof. Brian Yuliarto, S.T., M.Eng., Ph.D., delivered a speech virtually, expressing appreciation for ITB’s role in nurturing thinkers, innovators, and national leaders who contribute to Indonesia’s progress.

"Indonesia is on its way to becoming an advanced industrial nation and escaping the middle-income trap. ITB holds a strategic role in shaping higher education transformation that can meet the challenges of the times," Prof. Brian stated.

He also encouraged the entire ITB academic community to use the 66th Dies Natalis as a momentum to strengthen their commitment to producing high-quality human resources and research. "Through close collaboration between universities, academics, industries, and the government, we can accelerate Indonesia’s transformation into a developed nation," he concluded.

Reporter: Anggun Nindita
Translator: Anggi Nurdiani (Management, 2024)