UNAIR NEWS – A remarkable accomplishment was achieved by a student of Universitas Airlangga. Najwa Khoir Aldawiyah, an undergraduate in Statistics from the Faculty of Science and Technology, class of 2022, won 3rd place in the 2025 Satria Data National Statistics Competition (NSC).
Aldawiyah said her initial goal was simply to broaden her experience. “My motivation for joining NSC was simple, I wanted to take part in more competitions, and Satria Data is well-known as a major event in statistics,” she shared. She added that her interest in the field of data has grown since her first semester.
Competition theme and analysis process
For the competition, Aldawiyah wrote an essay discussing strategies to reduce poverty in Central Java Province, focusing specifically on sustainable economic development. “I wanted to examine the key factors driving poverty and how the findings could contribute to more effective policy decisions,” she explained.
During the competition, Aldawiyah used R software for her analysis. “R provides many tools that really simplify data processing,” she said. A standout moment for her was completing the essay within a strict seven-hour limit and waiting for her presentation turn. “The awarding ceremony was the most unforgettable part. I still can’t believe I placed third,” she said. She added, “Honestly, I had no expectations. Reaching the final round at the Islamic University of Indonesia was already felt like a major achievement.”
Challenges and support
Aldawiyah said her greatest challenge was managing her time. “Alongside preparing for the competition, I had to work on my thesis proposal, independent study program, and other commitments.” She also had little experience presenting directly to judges, making the event a new learning opportunity. “But my advisor and Ditmawa were incredibly helpful in refining my content, delivery, and Q&A practice,” she said.
“My advisor, Dr. M. Fariz Fadillah Mardianto, S.Si., M.Si., and the Ditmawa team helped me polish the material, strengthen my presentation, and prepare for the Q&A,” she added. Her friends were equally supportive. “They didn’t just offer encouragement, they discussed my essay with me, helped me rehearse the presentation, and practiced Q&A sessions.” She also credited her family’s unwavering support. “All of their help meant a lot and boosted my confidence,” she said.
Significance and aspirations
To Aldawiyah, winning 3rd place represents an important milestone. “This is one of my most memorable achievements during college, especially now that I’m nearing graduation,” she said. “Success isn’t about being the smartest—it’s about staying consistent and daring to try.”
She hopes her accomplishment will motivate other students. “I hope this achievement encourages other students who want to participate in statistics competitions,” she added. Aldawiyah also wants to bring greater recognition to her program and university. “This experience is a stepping stone toward future achievements and a stronger career ahead,” she concluded.
Author: Dara Devinta Faradhilla
Editor: Ragil Kukuh Imanto
