UNAIR NEWS – Pride and emotion filled the commencement ceremony of Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) as the institution celebrated its 253rd graduation. A total of 841 students completed their studies across doctoral, master’s, bachelor’s, and diploma programs. The event was held with solemnity at the Airlangga Convention Center (ACC), MERR-C Campus, on Saturday, August 2, 2025.
Rector Prof. Dr. Muhammad Madyan, SE, M.Si., M.Fin. delivered congratulatory remarks to the graduates and expressed deep appreciation to parents, guardians, families, faculty, and staff who had supported them throughout their academic journey.
“This graduation is more than a ceremonial milestone—it is a recognition of your hard work, dedication, and commitment during your years at Universitas Airlangga,” Prof. Madyan said.
Reminding graduates of HEBAT values
Prof. Madyan stressed that graduation marks not an end, but the beginning of a new chapter as UNAIR alumni, urging them to uphold the HEBAT values: Humble, Excellent, Brave, Agile, and Transcendent. He emphasized that these are not just slogans, but principles to be practiced in every area of life.
The professor of Management also highlighted the increasingly complex challenges of today’s job market and encouraged graduates to compete globally while contributing positively to society. “Every stage of your studies has sharpened both your hard and soft skills. You must be able to compete at the highest level,” he said.
He left four key reminders for the graduates: to uphold integrity and professionalism, commit to lifelong learning, and apply their knowledge for the benefit of society. “Carry forward UNAIR’s spirit as a university of impact. The world awaits your contribution,” he added.
Scholarships for master’s studies
The ceremony also featured an inspiring moment from recipients of the Kartu Indonesia Pintar Kuliah (KIPK) program, as two graduates received direct offers from the Rector to continue to master’s programs with full scholarships.
Arizqa Novi Ramadhani, a graduate of the Indonesian Language and Literature program, became the first in her family to earn a university degree. She recounted her journey as an out-of-town student who persevered despite financial limitations. “I believe education can improve the quality of life for myself and my family. I’m proud not only to have graduated, but to have done so from a world-class university,” Ramadhani said.
A similar story came from Dimas Septo Nugroho, a Political Science graduate and KIPK recipient who lost his father at a young age. During his studies, Nugroho was active in the LPM Mercusuar Student Press, participated in the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka program, and completed his thesis on time. He now works as a media specialist at a local Surabaya news outlet.
Impressed by their determination and achievements, Prof. Madyan offered both graduates the opportunity to pursue master’s degrees. “Stay active and be a force for positive change in your fields of expertise,” he said.
Author: Nur Khovivatul Mukorrobah
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
