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  • Formulating Faculty Research Roadmap P4M FEB UNS Invites All Research Groups

    Formulating Faculty Research Roadmap P4M FEB UNS Invites All Research Groups

    The formulation of a faculty-wide research roadmap is among the six flagship programs initiated by the Center for Research and Community Engagement Development (P4M), Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS), for the year 2025. As part of this initiative, P4M held a Research Roadmap Development Workshop on Thursday, 13 February 2025, at the Coordination Room, Soeharno TS Building, 1st Floor. The session was attended by the heads and secretaries of all research groups within FEB.

    Dila Maghrifani, S.E., B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D., Head of P4M FEB UNS, conveyed in her remarks that the FEB UNS Research Roadmap is developed based on the 2025 UNS Research and Community Engagement Guidelines. She further emphasized that each Research Group Roadmap must be aligned with Presidential Regulation No. 38 of 2018 concerning the National Research Master Plan (RIRN) 2017–2045. The roadmap development initiative is intended to provide strategic direction for research and community engagement activities at the faculty level.

    Dila elaborated that the draft roadmap outlines seven main thematic areas. The first area is Climate Change, which includes topics on business innovation and adaptation, economic impact assessments of climate change, disaster risk management, economic actors’ adaptation and mitigation strategies, as well as governance and accountability.

    The second area is Renewable Energy, focusing on green economy, feasibility and implementation of renewable energy development, governance supporting sustainability initiatives, sustainable business strategies, and the circular economy.

    The third area is Food Security, covering household food security, the relationship between climate change and food resilience, food environments and malnutrition, food diversification, nutrition transitions, and food quality.

    The fourth theme is Creative Industries, encompassing digital transformation in business sectors, development of creative industry business models rooted in local wisdom and cultural heritage, MSME strengthening, entrepreneurship, Islamic finance innovation, governance and accountability supporting creative industry development, and corporate governance.

    The fifth area addresses Human Capital Development and Poverty Alleviation, with research focused on human capital advancement, inclusive education, inclusive development, poverty reduction, and human resource development. The sixth thematic area is Finance and Banking, which includes digital transformation in banking, fintech adoption and financial inclusion, blockchain and cryptocurrency in the banking sector, open banking and API integration, and cybersecurity in digital banking.

    The roadmap is also designed to contribute to the development of 16 core research themes set by UNS, in alignment with national priorities as formulated by the Ministry of Research and the National Innovation System (SINAS), while also supporting the University’s vision. These themes include: poverty alleviation; climate change and biodiversity; new and renewable energy; food security and safety; health, tropical diseases, nutrition and pharmaceuticals; disaster management and mitigation; national integration and social harmony; regional autonomy and decentralization; arts and culture/creative industries; infrastructure, transportation and defense technology; information and communication technology; human development and national competitiveness; Javanology; finance and banking; Pancasila and national values; and health facilities technology.

  • Hosting a Hybrid Webinar “Where a Scientific Writing Journey Begins,” MAKSI FEB UNS Welcomes New Students

    Hosting a Hybrid Webinar “Where a Scientific Writing Journey Begins,” MAKSI FEB UNS Welcomes New Students

    The Master of Accounting Study Program (MAKSI), Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Sebelas Maret (FEB UNS), hosted a hybrid webinar on Thursday, February 13, 2025, as part of its orientation program for new students. The event took place in the Konimex Hall, Bachtiar Effendi Building, FEB UNS, and was also available virtually via Zoom Cloud Meeting.

    The two speakers featured in the webinar were Dr. Rabiatul Munirah Alpandi from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Malaysia, and Nadifa Salsabila Nizar, S.Ak., M.Ak., a MAKSI FEB UNS alumnae who currently serves as Director of General Affairs and Finance at RS Ortopedi Siaga Utama.

    The event commenced with a prayer and the Indonesian national anthem. The webinar was officially opened with remarks from the Head of the MAKSI Program, Lulus Kurniasih, S.E., M.S.Ak., Ph.D., who extended her appreciation and conveyed her hopes for the session. “I hope today’s discussion provides valuable insight for the new MAKSI students. As we know, MAKSI students are required to conduct research and publish their findings. Therefore, today’s speakers will share their knowledge on how to carry out proper research and how to get published,” explained Lulus Kurniasih, S.E., M.S.Ak., Ph.D.

    Dr. Rabiatul Munirah Alpandi opened her presentation by explaining that graduate students differ from undergraduates in terms of academic focus. At the graduate level, students are expected to explore a specific topic in greater depth. “You need to determine the subject or field you wish to specialize in. As undergraduate student, we learn the foundational elements of accounting, which involves many courses. However, in a master’s program, the focus narrows to a specific field, leading to in-depth research. Therefore, having a clear objective is essential,” stated Dr. Rabiatul.

    Regarding the research and publication process, she highlighted the importance of identifying a problem to solve, once the student has determined their field of interest. Such problems can often be discovered through literature reviews. This process helps formulate the problem statement and identify research gaps from previous studies. Based on that, students can then define the purpose of their research and its contribution.

    Furthermore, according to Dr. Rabiatul, it is also important to understanding data availability. Without accessible data, students may face challenges in data collection and analysis. Research methodology is also a critical component, as it determines how students approach and resolve the identified problem in pursuit of their research objectives.

    “You must collect and process data ethically. If your results turn out to be statistically insignificant, simply explain them clearly and provide justification. Avoid manipulating data just to obtain significant results,” she emphasized.

    Toward the end of her presentation, Dr. Rabiatul discussed the use of AI in the publication process. “AI can facilitate research and publication efforts, but we must use it wisely and cautiously. Ultimately, during your thesis defense, it will be you who must respond to the examiners’ questions. As practice, try to write daily—even just two paragraphs. It’s fine to take breaks, but be careful not to do it for too long, as it may become difficult to start again,” she concluded.

    In contrast to Dr. Rabiatul’s theoretical presentation, the second speaker, Nadifa Salsabila Nizar, S.Ak., M.Ak., shared her personal academic journey during her time in the MAKSI program. She described the beginning of her studies, her successful application for the alumni scholarship, and the challenges she faced during the publication process, which eventually led her to extend her period of study. Alongside her story, Nadifa offered motivation and advice to current students of the program.

    “We must remember our initial reasons or motivations for pursuing a master’s degree. This is particularly important when we begin to question whether we should continue or stop. If needed, take a short break—but do not entirely lose contact with your academic advisor,” said Nadifa.

    In addition to the presentations, participants were given the opportunity to ask questions directly to the speakers, with each student who posed a question receiving a gift. The event concluded with a group photo session.

  • Prof. Supriyono, Professor of Conservation Economics: Stakeholder Conservation Awareness as the Foundation for Sustainable Development Planning

    Prof. Supriyono, Professor of Conservation Economics: Stakeholder Conservation Awareness as the Foundation for Sustainable Development Planning

    Prof. Dr. Supriyono, M.Si., was inaugurated on February 11, 2025, as the 25th Professor at the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB) and the 347th at Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS). The inauguration ceremony was held at the GPH Haryo Mataram Auditorium, UNS. He was conferred the title of Professor in the field of Conservation Economics, delivering an inaugural speech titled “Stakeholder Conservation Awareness as the Foundation for Sustainable Development Planning.”
    In his address, Prof. Supriyono emphasized that conservation is a vital element in supporting sustainable development, which integrates economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Uncontrolled exploitation of natural resources, he noted, threatens ecosystem sustainability and adversely affects human well-being. Sustainable development is not solely focused on economic growth but also on ensuring environmental preservation for future generations.
    “The success of conservation efforts depends on the involvement of multiple parties, including the government, private sector, communities, and international institutions. Multi-stakeholder collaboration is necessary to develop inclusive and sustainable policies. The government plays a central role in formulating regulations and allocating resources, while the private sector contributes through innovation and corporate social responsibility,” he explained.
    Sustainable development is built upon three key pillars: economic, social, and environmental. The economic dimension emphasizes resource efficiency and the advancement of green technologies; the social dimension focuses on equity and community well-being; and the environmental dimension prioritizes ecosystem preservation through prudent management of natural resources.
    Soil and water conservation are key priorities within sustainable development initiatives. Practices such as terracing, watershed rehabilitation, and efficient irrigation technologies have proven effective in reducing land degradation and addressing clean water scarcity. Case studies in Indonesia demonstrate the success of land rehabilitation and water management programs rooted in community participation.
    Ecosystem conservation—particularly of forests and wetlands—plays a critical role in mitigating climate change. Well-preserved ecosystems can absorb carbon dioxide and help reduce the impact of global warming. These efforts contribute directly to the achievement of global goals, including Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13: Climate Action.

  • Prof. Bhimo Rizky Samudro Inaugural Address Highlights the Theme of Pseudo-Civilization and Its Impact on National Economic Sovereignty

    Prof. Bhimo Rizky Samudro Inaugural Address Highlights the Theme of Pseudo-Civilization and Its Impact on National Economic Sovereignty

    Prof. Bhimo Rizky Samudro, S.E., M.Si., Ph.D., was formally inaugurated as Professor of Political Economy at the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS), on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at the GPH Haryo Mataram Auditorium, UNS.
    In his inaugural address, Prof. Bhimo raised a critical theme regarding the phenomenon of pseudo-civilization and its implications for national economic sovereignty. His lecture, titled “Pseudo-Civilization and National Economic Sovereignty”, explored how civilization can become superficial when it merely takes the form of systemic and institutional constructs without deeper substance.
    He argued that for Indonesia, the presence of pseudo-civilization has resulted in structural dependency on external factors such as foreign debt, foreign direct investment, and international consulting agencies. This condition has led to a diminished capacity for sovereign economic policymaking and heightened economic uncertainty due to global pressures.
    Indonesia, according to Prof. Bhimo, continues to face challenges in harnessing and developing its local potential. National elites often exhibit a stronger inclination toward adopting international economic consensus rather than reinforcing the country’s economic sovereignty—particularly in the context of inter-state economic relations.
    Prof. Bhimo concluded his address by asserting that pseudo-civilization has contributed significantly to dependency and economic uncertainty in developing countries such as Indonesia. Addressing this issue requires strategic efforts to mitigate its adverse effects while simultaneously strengthening national economic sovereignty.
    Such transformation—both ideological and operational—demands active engagement at all levels, from individuals to institutions. It is also essential to maintain a careful balance between economic and non-economic dimensions in order to achieve a more equitable and sustainable form of national welfare.

  • FEB UNS Faculty Members Welcome Three Newly Appointed Professors

    FEB UNS Faculty Members Welcome Three Newly Appointed Professors

    The faculty members at the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS), proudly celebrated the inauguration of three newly appointed professors: Prof. Dr. Eko Arief Sudaryono, M.Si., Ak., CA., BKP.; Prof. Dr. Supriyono, M.Si.; and Prof. Bhimo Rizky Samudro, S.E., M.Si., Ph.D. The ceremony was held on February 12, 2025, at the Suhardi Auditorium Building FEB UNS, and was attended by lecturers, academic support staff, retired professor, members of the Dharma Wanita organization, and student organizations (Ormawa) in FEB UNS.

    Prof. Dr. Tulus Haryono, M.Ek., Chair of the Academic Senate of FEB UNS, expressed his gratitude that FEB welcome another three new professors. In his remarks, he noted that FEB currently has 26 active professors, including the three professors inaugurated on that day. Of this total, eight are in the Management Study Program, nine in Development Economics Study Program, and nine in Accounting Study Program.

    “To the younger generation, or early-career faculty members, I encourage you to pursue your academic careers and strive for the highest academic rank. It is your right as a lecturer and a source of pride—not only for yourself but also for the institution. I strongly advise the younger faculty to diligently work toward achieving professorship,” he said, offering words of encouragement.

    He also highlighted that a professorship is a lifelong designation for academics, unlike administrative positions such as Dean, which are held only during the term of service.

    Prof. Irwan Trinugroho, Vice Rector for Planning, Partnership, and Internationalization Affairs, also extended his congratulations to the newly appointed professors. He went on to commend the FEB Dean Office for its efforts in preparing the AACSB Eligibility Application, a strategic move in advancing the faculty’s global recognition.

    “We are looking forward to see substantial progress at UNS, particularly within FEB. I would like to express my appreciation to the FEB leadership for drafting the AACSB Eligibility Application. In 2025, we must accelerate our efforts, and the university has already allocated budgetary support for this initiative. Hopefully, within the next three to four years, we can achieve AACSB accreditation and make FEB as a globally recognized faculty,” he stated.

    Following the addresses by the three newly appointed professors, the event also featured a special segment where senior figures of FEB were invited to reflect on the history and development of the faculty. Speakers included Dra. GAA Susilowati C., SU.; Drs. Kasiman Tjilik Suwito, MM.; and Prof. Dr. Wisnu Untoro.

    Through these historical reflections, hopefully, FEB faculty members will draw inspiration from the challenges, achievements, and valuable lessons of the past leaders. These insights serve as a reminder of the faculty’s long and dynamic journey, and offer lessons to be embraced in facing future transformations.

  • Prof. Eko Arief Sudaryono Highlights the Ethical Dimensions of Tax Avoidance in Inaugural Address

    Prof. Dr. Eko Arief Sudaryono, M.Si., Ak., CA., BKP., was formally inaugurated as Professor of Taxation at the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS), during the Open Session of the UNS Academic Senate held on Monday, February 10, 2025, at the G.P.H. Haryo Mataram Auditorium. In his inaugural speech as the 24th Professor at FEB and the 333rd at UNS, Prof. Eko addressed a fundamental issue in Indonesia’s economic and social development—tax avoidance from an ethical perspective, entitled “Tax Avoidance and Ethics: Responding to Moral Challenges in Modern Tax Systems.

    According to Prof. Eko, taxation serves as the cornerstone of national development, providing support for essential sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Without adequate tax revenue, achieving social welfare becomes significantly more difficult. Beyond its legal status as a civic duty, taxation is also a moral responsibility, one that upholds social justice and contributes to economic stability. “Rampant tax avoidance unfairly shifts the tax burden, perpetuates inequality, and undermines trust in the tax system. This is not merely a legal concern, but an ethical issue with far-reaching consequences for national unity and our collective future,” he emphasized.
    Tax avoidance presents a major challenge to governments worldwide, particularly in developing countries that heavily rely on tax revenue as a primary source of state income. In response, governments have continued to improve their tax systems through digital transformation, expansion of the tax base, and increased public awareness to build fiscal independence and promote economic growth. One of the primary ethical implications of tax avoidance is the reduction in government revenue that could otherwise be allocated to public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Stakeholders—especially shareholders—may support such practices due to their potential to enhance corporate profits and returns. However, from the perspective of the government and society at large, these actions represent a disregard for corporate social responsibility.

    In Indonesia, the phenomenon of tax avoidance continues to pose a significant challenge to state revenue. Both domestic and multinational corporations have exploited ‘tax havens’ to shift income or conceal profits. Other strategies include thin capitalization, whereby companies use loans from subsidiaries in tax haven jurisdictions to reduce their tax liabilities in Indonesia. Additionally, some companies employ complex corporate structures to transfer profits to lower-tax jurisdictions, resulting in significant losses to Indonesia’s potential tax revenue. The Indonesian government has taken decisive steps to address these challenges, notably through smarter tax policy reforms and the strengthening of oversight mechanisms. A major breakthrough in this effort is the implementation of the Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI), which enables the automatic exchange of financial data between countries. This initiative significantly limits the possibility of cross-border tax avoidance, as Indonesian tax authorities can now access financial data of companies that previously operated beyond their reach.

    Prof. Eko further emphasized that tax avoidance is a multifaceted issue situated at the intersection of legal compliance and moral consideration. Both globally and domestically, tax avoidance raises critical questions about corporate social responsibility and fairness within the tax system. While legally, not all forms of tax avoidance are classified as violations, ethical concerns cannot be ignored.

    He concluded his address with several strategic recommendations to mitigate tax avoidance. First, instilling tax ethics should begin at an early stage. Second, comprehensive tax policy information is needed to close regulatory loopholes, supported by a modern cultural framework. Third, financial transparency should be promoted through country-by-country reporting to ensure that corporations contribute proportionally. Lastly, he advocated for stronger collaboration among the government, business sector, and civil society to build a fair and dignified tax system.

  • P4M FEB UNS Launches Six Strategic Programs for 2025

    P4M FEB UNS Launches Six Strategic Programs for 2025

    The Center for Research and Community Engagement Development (P4M) of the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS), held a coordination and communication meeting with all Research Groups (RG) within FEB UNS on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at the FEB Coordination Room. Prof. Tri Mulyaningsih, S.E., M.Si., Ph.D., Vice Dean for Academic and Research Affairs, stated in her remarks that the meeting aimed to communicate various aspects related to research and community engagement activities to the faculty members of FEB. Prior to the meeting, Prof. Tri conducted a situational analysis to guide the direction of the discussion.

    She outlined four key objectives for the session. First, to inform particularly new lecturers that conducting research and community engagement is a professional obligation alongside teaching duties. Each lecturer is expected to be involved in at least one research or community service activity per semester, either as the lead or a team member. UNS facilitates this through Research Groups (RGs). Second, as UNS progresses toward becoming a research-based university, all academic activities—including teaching—are expected to be research-oriented. Third, for lecturers with a master’s degree who plan to pursue doctoral studies, experience in RG-based research at the university level is essential. Lastly, UNS has provided various incentives to encourage academic members to engage in research, making the need to support these activities even more important.

    “The Academic Affairs Division and P4M are working in collaboration to encourage lecturers to strengthen their research capacity. We are developing a faculty-level research system to make the process of conducting research more accessible and of higher quality. The core objective is to establish a more effective research ecosystem. The six programs developed by P4M are expected to improve the quality of input, processes, and research outputs,” Prof. Tri emphasized.

    Dila Maghrifani, S.E., B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D., Head of P4M, presented the six main programs formulated in collaboration with the Dean’s Office. “In 2025, P4M FEB UNS has launched six programs: a working paper forum, the development of a faculty research roadmap, a writing and publication support clinic, creation of a database of external funding sources, proposal strengthening, and the management of research internship students,” she explained.

    The working paper forum will be a recurring academic activity held monthly in person, designed to enhance research quality. Each RG will be responsible for organizing one session and will invite both internal and external speakers. The content may include research dissemination, publication outcomes, or academic discussions. The research roadmap development aims to align faculty research and community engagement activities with long-term institutional goals. The writing and publication support clinic is specifically targeted at lecturers currently on study leave and those who have overdue publication requirements, as well as young faculty members considering doctoral studies abroad. This program will emphasize output with durations ranging from one to three months until journal submission.

    The external funding database will be developed and shared through RG group chats, P4M’s official website, social media, and direct messaging. The proposal strengthening program will involve collaboration between RGs and laboratory heads to develop proposals, seek external funding, and foster collaboration among faculty members across different research groups. The final program focuses on the management of research internship students, where undergraduate interns are integrated into the faculty research group activities. Each RG may submit filling request for intern students to support administrative-related within the research and community engagement activities.

    “P4M’s role is to support the implementation of these initiatives so that faculty members are better supported in conducting meaningful research. These six programs are designed to improve the overall research ecosystem and will benefit from further input and discussion to ensure their successful implementation,” Dila added.

    During the session, P4M also introduced its latest guidelines for research and community engagement activity. Participants actively engaged in discussions and provided constructive feedback on the proposed programs.

  • FEB UNS Establishes New Student Organization: “Excel” English Club

    FEB UNS Establishes New Student Organization: “Excel” English Club

    Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS), has formally established a new Students Organization (Ormawa) under the name English Club “Excel”, through the Dean’s Decree No. 569/UN27.04/KM.04.00/2025 dated January 30, 2025. Proficiency in English is one of the essential skills for students, especially in the context of communication. Therefore, the establishment of English Club “Excel” at FEB aims to provide a platform for students to improve their English language skills outside of formal classroom settings.

    The new Ormawa is designed not only serves as a room for practicing speaking and writing in English but also as a medium to broaden global cultural understanding, strengthen interpersonal abilities, and encourage collaboration among students from diverse backgrounds. Through activities such as discussions, debates, workshops, and community-based initiatives, members of English Club “Excel” can learn together, share insights, and develop their English skills in practical ways. The primary objective of the club is to create an environment that supports effective English language development while also enhancing members’ confidence in using the language.

    Tastaftiyan Risfandy, S.E., M.Sc., Ph.D., Vice Dean for Student and Alumni Affairs, recounts the initial establishment process of English Club “Excel.”

    “Along with several students, we discussed and initiated a process to find the best way to support FEB students in competitions—particularly those involving English. This is also related to the requirements for Outstanding Student selections (Mawapres), where English proficiency is one of the key components. Mastery of English is highly important. With the establishment of this Ormawa, we hope it will serve as a bridge for students before they enter competitions. It allows them to connect and interact with their peers in the club, so they can develop their speaking and other related skills. I would like to thank the Dean for supporting the establishment of English Club “Excel,” especially in providing opportunities for students to improve their English language competence,” he stated.

    Prof. Bhimo Rizky Samudro, S.E., M.Si., Ph.D., Dean of FEB UNS, expressed his appreciation for the initiative from the Student and Alumni Affairs division, noting that English Club “Excel” will provide valuable opportunities for its members to improve their English proficiency, making them more prepared to compete.
    According to the Dean, beyond its relevance for student competitions and the Outstanding Student (Mawapres) selections, this club also contributes to FEB’s ongoing efforts to achieve AACSB international accreditation. The accreditation process involves all academic members, including faculty, academic support staff, and students.

  • FEB UNS Team Shines at National Scientific Paper Competition by Bank Indonesia Papua Barat

    FEB UNS Team Shines at National Scientific Paper Competition by Bank Indonesia Papua Barat

    The Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS), once again demonstrated its academic excellence on the national stage by securing 3rd Place in the prestigious PAPEDANOMICS 2024—the Regional Economic Week of Papua Barat—organized by Bank Indonesia Papua Barat.

    Competing against more than 350 participants from across the country, the FEB UNS team—comprised of Prof. Dr. Budhi Haryanto, FEB lecturer; Afif Hadi Susanto, M.M.; and Cheryl Marlitta Stefia, S.T., M.B.A., QRMA., CDM., a doctoral candidate in the Economics program (PDIE)—advanced to the top five finalists. They had the opportunity to present their research directly before the jury on September 10, 2024, in Manokwari, Papua Barat.

    Unlike ordinary academic events, PAPEDANOMICS 2024 is a high-level scientific competition that brings together leading economists, researchers, and practitioners to explore strategic regional economic issues. With a rigorous selection process, only research papers with real, applicable contributions to regional development made it to the final stage.

    The FEB UNS team’s innovative work and insightful analysis earned them a spot on the winner’s podium, reinforcing UNS’s position as a national leader in economics and business education. This achievement reflects not just the high quality of research at FEB UNS, but also the institution’s ongoing commitment to tackling real-world economic challenges through science-based solutions.

    Beyond individual recognition, this success is a collective victory for the UNS academic community. It serves as an inspiration for fellow students and faculty to pursue impactful research and continue contributing to Indonesia’s economic development through academic inquiry and innovation.

    With this milestone, FEB UNS further strengthens its national presence and opens more doors for strategic collaboration with key institutions. Looking ahead, FEB UNS remains committed to producing research that not only meets academic standards but also drives regional and national progress.

  • Silver Medal for FEB UNS Faculty Members at the 2024 International Competition on Education for All

    Silver Medal for FEB UNS Faculty Members at the 2024 International Competition on Education for All

    A glorious achievement accomplished by a faculty member at the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS). Cheryl Marlitta Stefia, a doctoral student in the Doctoral Program in Economics (PDIE), along with her supervisor Prof. Budhi Haryanto, brought home a Silver Medal at the International Competition on Education for All (ICEFA) 2024.

    The competition—held on December 27, 2024, in Kuala Lumpur and organized by the Asia Institute of Education for All—attracted scholars, researchers, and students from across the globe, all sharing a common goal: to find new and effective ways to expand access to education for everyone, in line with the global Education for All mission.

    Cheryl and Prof. Budhi’s essay, entitled “Engaging Remote Learners: Applying Gamification and Customer Behavior Insights to Break Educational Barriers in Indonesia,” stood out to the panel of judges. Their work shed light on a highly relevant issue—how gamification strategies and principles from customer behavior can be creatively used to enhance the participation and motivation of remote learners, especially in areas with limited educational access.

    In her statement, Cheryl reflected on the achievement, emphasizing that it was the result of collaborative effort and a shared passion for exploring practical and innovative learning solutions that can be adapted in Indonesia’s educational landscape.

    “We hope this research can inspire new approaches in Indonesian education, especially in overcoming challenges related to access and inclusivity,” she shared.

    This recognition not only highlights Cheryl and Prof. Budhi’s dedication but also contributes meaningfully to conversations around education reform, particularly how technology and behavior-based strategies can support a more inclusive learning environment.

    Their success also serves as an encouraging example for fellow Indonesian scholars and students to engage more actively in international academic forums and keep pushing the boundaries of educational innovation.