UNAIR NEWS – The celebration of National Sports Day (Haornas) took place with great fanfare at the MERR C Campus Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) on Sunday, September 20, 2026. This event served as a platform to strengthen synergy among local government, academics, and the private sector in building an inclusive sports ecosystem grounded in sport science.
The importance of sport in developing character
UNAIR Vice Rector for Resources, Prof Dr Ardianto SE Ak MSi, emphasized the importance of Haornas celebration as a catalyst for raising public awareness about a healthy and resilient lifestyle.
“National Sports Day is not just a commemoration. This occasion serves to remind us about the importance of developing individuals who are healthy, resilient, disciplined, and have a good character,” said Prof Ardianto.
He added that UNAIR is fully committed to support the Principal Government (Pemprov) of East Java programs aimed to improve public fitness and appreciate dedicated athletes.
“What has been achieved by athletes today is proof that success stems from the courage to dream, the discipline to practice, and the spirit to continue praying,” he said.
Sport science application and collaboration
On the other hand, Vice Governor of East Java, Dr H Emil Elestianto Dardak B Bus MSc, expressed his appreciation for UNAIR’s willingness to host the celebration of Haornas. In his speech, Dardak emphasized three key points for advancing sports in East Java. These points are the application of scientific knowledge, early-age development, and cross-sectoral solidarity.
“The key points are to be as sophisticated as possible, as early as possible, and as united as possible. When these three key points are implemented, God willing, the results will not disappoint our efforts,” Dardak emphasized.
Dardak also highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation to develop the sports ecosystem so that it does not get stuck in a usual routine.
“East Java shouldn’t take a ‘business as usual’ approach. We have to think out of the box. We need to foster innovation to develop sports in East Java. Therefore, synergy is important,” he explained.
This Haornas event was a lively celebration, featuring an awards ceremony for athletes and private sectors who were involved in athletes development, exhibition of sport science innovations, and performances from various sports communities. Through this momentum, the Principal Government of East Java and UNAIR hoped that this cross-sectoral collaboration will continue to foster a healthy and high-achieving younger generation.
Author: Fauziah Laili Romadhon
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
