Institut Teknologi Bandung

In addition, other ITB leaders were also featured in the meeting, including Prof. Dr. Ir. Jaka Sembiring, M.Eng. As Vice-Rector for Academic and Student Affairs, Ir. Muhamad Abduh, M.T., Ph.D. as Vice-Rector for Financial Planning and Development, Dr. Ir. Gusti Ayu Putri Saptawati S., M.Comm. As Vice-Rector for Resources, and Vice-Rector for Research and Innovation, Prof. Ir. I Gede Wenten, M.Sc., Ph.D.

This meeting, in general, discussed a better transformation to achieve a goal. In response to introspection and self-evaluation, the leader invited all academicians to make improvements and updates. This positive change must be sustained. The ITB employs a variety of strategies to achieve its goals. One of them is to develop a strategic plan with a transformational mindset toward becoming a Locally Relevant and Globally Respected University, as mandated by the Academic Senate.

"ITB has a tradition of providing an academic environment that is as positive as possible while also striving to contribute to Indonesia. Participating in activities that are aligned with the Merdeka Campus program is one way to bring forth the transformation. The objective is to advance the experience of learning and interaction. Since we must interact professionally with other fields at the very least, the expansion of learning can enrich students into multidisciplinary, in addition to the main areas of their choice. Increased interaction, on the other hand, aims to help students understand the diversity of perspectives, enrich our problem-solving skills, broaden our sensitivity, and strengthen collaboration," Prof. Reini stated.

ITB collaborates with parties who have complementary expertise to achieve the goals. It was carefully designed in collaboration with State Universities with Legal Entities (PTN-BH), which share many characteristics, including a common purpose. "Holding lectures with Unpad for cross-listed courses is one of the examples. Officially, students can take complimentary classes at Unpad to foster collaboration between researchers from both institutions and students,” Prof. Reini added.

According to Prof. Reini, the strategy aims to develop resources, human resources, and expertise. Taking such steps is expected to increase the capacity and efficiency of reciprocal and mutually beneficial education, as well as make it a culture that can be strengthened.

"ITB will always understand itself, with all of its flaws and strengths. We will also continue to be patient in our creating and sustaining a better tomorrow, as well as to open up and learn from all parties. We can determine which parties are the best in their respective fields so that we can experience mutual progress in harmony, "Prof. Reini added.

Prof. Reini stated that the future priority is to meet the transformation goal of 2025. We should indeed act quickly to effect significant change. However, managing a collaborative movement is the most difficult task. "We have to walk with purpose. We reach the goal, not the other way around. It's important to 'lower your voice' as we walk to our destination. Concentrate solely on the front of the room. Not that it rejects criticism; rather, we have to assess the constructive inputs only," Prof. Reini concluded.

Reporter: Zahra Annisa Fitri (Regional and City Planning, 2019)
Translator: Naffisa Adyan (Oceanography, 2019)