Meanwhile, the mega-shift in the New Normal era includes people who now work from home, prioritize fundamental necessities so that tertiary product consumption is comparatively reduced, have great empathy, and make digital innovation the key to success in attracting customers.

In the virtual world, there will be an increasing number of digital activities, particularly in the field of education and higher education services. As a result, universities can host transdisciplinary and blended-learning events, as well as use IoT, upgrade digital infrastructure, and improve connection across university entities.

“Current digital transformation is strongly linked to pedagogical content and technology. Students must also play an active role in this shift,” said Prof. Kadarsah.

ITB Digital Transformation

Continuing Prof. Kadarsah’s presentation, Prof. Hermawan began by discussing the current changes. According to him, the present generation must learn to adapt in order to transform. The aim of achieving optimal education, advantages and efficiency, support and ease of adoption, desire to change, and a sense of belonging are all aspects that inspire the emergence of this learning intention. These factors may be divided into two categories: internal and external.

Digitalization will widen the gap between nations if one doesn't learn and pursue it. "As a result, we must put in maximal effort. We must be proactive in our attempts to accelerate the transformation. This is a type of national investment," Prof. Hermawan stated.

University Ranking and Digital Presence

Dr. Poerbandono gave the final presentation via a video that had been created in advance. He explained that there is a reciprocal relationship between public opinion and university reputation and recognition, as evidenced by university rankings.

The ranking is based on at least two factors: public opinion and data from the university, such as data on research productivity. Despite the fact that ITB is placed 303rd (2022) in the QS World University Rankings, the highest ranking in the last 20 years, ITB has at least three weaknesses, including internationalization, citations, and academic reputation.

“Reputation is a complicated matter. Partnership management and digital presence are two of the most influential aspects,” Prof. Poerbandono revealed. He stressed the importance of increasing the number of domestic and foreign partners for ITB. In terms of digital presence, this can be boosted by increasing the quantity of articles written by ITB writers. In order to strengthen ITB's reputation, it is critical to increase positive public perception.

Prof. Poerbandono concluded his video recording by saying, "Hopefully this can encourage us to take systematic actions to expand the number and quality of ITB's existence on the internet."

Prof. Kadarsah concluded the event by saying that the current era of disruption is one of severe changes and exponential transformations, and that efforts from all sides are required. In his final remarks, Prof. Hermawan emphasized that lecturers have a responsibility, and that whether they like it or not, they must be prepared to deal with the transformation.

Reporter: Zahra Annisa Fitri (Urban and Regional Planning, 2019)
Translator: Sekar Dianwidi Bisowarno (Bioengineering, 2019)