Untar hosted the fourth anniversary celebration of the Indonesian Catholic Lecturers Association (IKDKI), Saturday (25/11). The celebration with the theme “Capable and Serving” was held at Campus I Untar.
The celebration began with a Mass of Thanksgiving led by the Chairman of the Presidium of the KWI/Uskup of Bandung Mgr. Antonius Subianto Bunjamin, O.S.C., together with the Indonesian Military Vice Bishops Rm. Yos Bintoro and Rm. Didit Soepartono.
Mgr. Antonius Subianto Bunjamin during his homily
Bishop Antonius hoped that IKDKI could become an institution that supports the services of lecturers, especially those who are Catholic, in improving the quality of education in Indonesia.
“The lives of the younger generation depend on the teachings given by lecturers,” said Bishop Antonius.
In particular, Bishop Antonius expressed his appreciation to Untar for facilitating this event.
On the other hand, Rector of Untar Prof. Dr. Ir. Agustinus Purna Irawan, M.T., M.M., I.P.U., ASEAN Eng. who is also the Chairman of IKDKI emphasized that IKDKI is willing to be a partner of all universities in Indonesia.
Rector hoped that IKDKI would become a home for Catholic lecturers to synergize and cooperate in education in order to improve accreditation, research, and operational management of universities. He said, Untar wants to support IKDKI in developing education in Indonesia.
“Improving the young generation requires qualified lecturers, so, Untar is willing to provide scholarships and services for IKDKI members who have the desire to improve their education,” said the Rector.
Plt. Director General of Catholic Religious Affairs A. M. Adiyarto Sumardjono, S.E., M.Hum. representing the Minister of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia Yaqut Cholil Qoumas specifically congratulated IKDKI. Adiyarto hopes that IKDKI can provide exploration space for lecturers in creating creativity and transforming science in Indonesia.
“Hopefully IKDKI will continue to grow and work for the government, the Church, and society,” said Adiyarto.
In the event, a talk show session was also held with speakers Director of Catholic Education Director General of Catholic Bimas Ministry of Religion Dr. Salman Habeahan, Rector of Untar, and Professor of Department of Criminology FISIP UI Prof. Drs. Adrianus Eliasta Sembiring Meliala, M.Si., M.Sc, Ph.D. Meanwhile, Rector of Institut Bisnis Nusantara (IBN) Dr. M.F. Christiningrum, Ak., CA as moderator.
The celebration was also filled with the awarding of IKDKI Award to lecturers in nine categories. Several Untar lecturers also received the award. (VW/AW)