UNAIR NEWS – The Rector of Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) officially welcomed new postgraduate students for the Even Semester of the 2024/2025 Academic Year on Wednesday (February 12, 2025). Held at the Garuda Mukti Hall on MERR C Campus and streamed online, the event marked the commencement of an academic journey for students in doctoral, sub-specialist, master’s, specialist, and professional programs.
Pathways to academic excellence
In his address, UNAIR Rector Prof. Dr. Mohammad Nasih, MT, Ak, CA congratulated the new students and emphasized the significance of seizing this invaluable academic opportunity. “The pursuit of knowledge is a distinguished endeavor and a pathway to lifelong fulfillment. Only a select few have the privilege of advancing their education to higher levels,” stated Prof. Nasih.
He also highlighted UNAIR’s outstanding accomplishments, noting that the university currently ranks fourth nationally and, according to some independent evaluations, has secured second place among approximately 4,000 universities in Indonesia. He encouraged students to use this achievement as motivation to strive for academic excellence.
“As a demonstration of gratitude, maximize this opportunity. Aim to graduate with distinction and within the expected timeframe,” he urged.
Power of critical and open-minded thinking
Prof. Nasih stressed the importance of developing a critical and structured mindset to effectively address challenges. Genuine scholars, he asserted, do not shift blame but rather analyze issues from their root causes.
“Today, we need individuals who possess critical thinking skills to tackle fundamental challenges. Success is not solely determined by intellectual capability but also by the willingness to embrace new knowledge,” he emphasized.
He also highlighted the value of humility in the learning process, stating that an open mind enables students to absorb knowledge more effectively. He encouraged the practice of unlearning, a process of discarding outdated ideas in favor of more relevant and insightful perspectives.
UNAIR: University that welcomes all
Closing his speech, Prof. Nasih took a moment to recognize new students from various regions of Indonesia. Among them was Gabriela D. Angela, a Notarial Law student from Nabire, Central Papua, and Michael Tukunang from Minahasa, North Sulawesi, who enrolled in the Legal Science and Development program.
“The presence of Gabriela and Michael underscores UNAIR’s commitment to inclusivity, as we welcome students from every corner of the nation,” he remarked.
With this inauguration, Prof. Nasih hoped that the new students would embark on their academic journey with passion and determination, ultimately making meaningful contributions to scholarship and national progress.
Author: Adinda Aulia Pratiwi
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
