UNAIR NEWS – Universitas Airlangga marks its credential in science once again. Dr. Arif Nur Muhammad Ansori, a scientist from UNAIR Postgraduate School was appointed as the new member of the Indonesian Young Academy of Science (ALMI) 2023. The plenary session of ALMI was held at Wisma Kerkhoven, Bosscha Observatory, ITB on December 8-9, 2023.
The annual plenary session was held by the end of the year and attended by young scientists in Indonesia. The forum discussed the future programs and the election of the Chairman and Secretary-General of ALMI for the 2025 to 2027. ALMI also inaugurated 20 new members from various academic backgrounds, including basic sciences, social, engineering, medicine, and arts and cultural studies.
“I’m beyond happy. ALMI accommodates the young scientists to voice their ideas to make progress and development in the field of science and technology,” Arif said.
The ALMI candidates underwent a rigorous screening process. The nation’s young scientists are verified against strict scientific criteria. Candidates are nominated by the Indonesian Academy of Sciences (AIPI) members, comprised of senior Indonesian scientists. Several aspects are considered in the evaluation, such as scientific publications, academic track record, reputation in national and international media, among others.
The conclusions of plenary
At the end of the panel, the congress concluded with several remarks. Firstly, they highlighted the importance of cooperation/collaboration among scientists, journalists, communities, non-governmental organizations, artists, and others, which includes joint efforts to safeguard academic/scientific freedom. Secondly, they emphasized the necessity of science communication, the challenge of popularizing science in the broader political consciousness within society, whether through art, film, events, or in developing interactive learning in education.
Thirdly, transformative research and learning. Transformative learning encourages initiatives to change or drive change. Fourthly, transformation is embodied in popular messages about climate justice, such as creating visuals, infographics, popular articles, or popular digital media platforms. The congress was ended with the presentation of the ALMI Thesis Award in the fields of basic sciences, health sciences, engineering, education sciences, social sciences, and humanities, organized by the Science Working Group.
Member’s contributions and responsibilities
Each member will join a working group within ALMI. They will drive every innovation chain for the development of science and technology in Indonesia. Arif is involved in the field of basic sciences. The benefit obtained is a stronger national network in research collaborations.
Being the only new member of ALMI from UNAIR is a positive development. It shows that UNAIR’s human resources are on par with other universities. Being part of ALMI will lead to greater innovation in research and development, as well as stronger national collaborations.
“Hopefully, science and technology can serve as the foundation for shaping national policies and advancing the country toward a better future. For example, in addressing issues like global warming, stunting, etc,” he said.
Author: Mutiara Rachmi Karenina
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
