The meeting began with remarks from the Chairman of SA ITB Prof. Ir. Hermawan Kresno Dipojono, MSEE, Ph.D. It was then continued by the Chairman of SA ITS Prof. Dr. Ir. Syafsir Akhlus, M.Sc.

One of the topics discussed in the meeting was the process of promoting professors in institutions. SA ITS raised the question of how the proposal scheme of being elected as a professor is done in ITB.

The 3rd Commission Chairman of SA ITB Prof. Ir. Andi Isra Mahyuddin, Ph.D. said that one of the efforts to accelerate promotions in ITB is speeding up the submission process, starting from the proposal to the plenary meeting for 20 days maximum. By doing so, the procedure will be more effective and efficient.

Each proposal is based on recommendations that meet the established conditions. "We simplify this process once the proposal reaches the senate for authorization by the 3rd Commission. Once a proposal is submitted by the executive, the 3rd Commission will form a four-member assessment team, with two members from the commission itself and the other two from ITB (Professors Forum). After inspection, we will invite the deans of ITB to discuss and finalize the conclusion. The result of the meeting is then declared at the academic senate plenary meeting," Prof. Andi elaborated.

Aside from the procedure, SA ITS also asked about the role of the academic senate in achieving the World Class University goals. The 4th Commission Secretary, Dr. Ir. Eka Djunarsjah, M.T., explained that in the ITB master and supplement plan of its development, the senate has mandated ITB to enter the top 200 global universities. SA ITB has set up a special team to provide the necessary direction to the executive unit so that this target can be achieved. Currently, ITB is ranked 235th globally (2023 QS WUR).

"There are several things done by institutions to achieve WCU, namely encouraging interdisciplinary research, collaboration, faculty hiring, promotion, monitoring, research culture," he added.

One of the pieces of advice given to ITB for securing its spot at the top 200 came from Prof. Jagadish, a lecturer from the Australian National University. He stated the three things considered as one step towards recognition are (1) excellent focus in the fields of research, teaching, and administration, (2) collaboration between different study programs and (3) maintaining and elevating university ranking that is often looked upon by students and parents.

SA ITB also suggested the three "main engines" reach the top 200: database infrastructure, resources, and programs. The visitation was also attended by Ir. Rildova, M.T., Ph.D., who contributed to the university's funding.

Reporter: Adi Permana
Translator: Ruth Nathania (Environmental Engineering, 2019)