On Kartini Day, UMB Appoints Two Women as Professors
REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA — Universitas Mercu Buana (UMB) appointed two female professors on the occasion of Kartini Day, Tuesday (21/4/2026). This appointment is seen not only as an academic achievement but also as a symbol of the shifting role of women in shaping the direction of knowledge. Women are no longer mere participants but primary actors in forming discourse and policy.
The appointment ceremony took place at the UMB campus in Meruya, West Jakarta, and was attended by representatives from LLDIKTI Region III as well as foundation officials. The event also served as a reflection on the relevance of Kartini’s spirit in higher education today.
The two professors appointed are Nurhayani Saragih in the field of media and communication and Augustina Kurniasih in financial management. Both are recognised for their strategic contributions in addressing contemporary challenges.
UMB Rector Andi Adriansyah stated that the position of professor is not merely an academic achievement. This position also carries a moral responsibility in safeguarding the direction of civilisation.
“Professors are guardians of the flame of knowledge as well as guardians of the direction of civilisation. They not only develop scientific knowledge but also instil values, ethics, and wisdom for future generations,” said Andi on Wednesday (22/4/2026).
He emphasised that the presence of women as professors demonstrates a significant shift in the academic world. Women now play the role of active thought leaders shaping the development of knowledge.
“In the midst of accelerating change and technological disruption, professors are expected to bridge knowledge and wisdom, as well as shape generations that are not only intellectually superior but also emotionally and morally mature,” said Andi.
In her scientific oration, Nurhayani highlighted major changes in the communication ecosystem. Digital transformation is seen as shifting the public’s role from mere recipients to producers of information.
“This change also brings new challenges. The massive flow of information, including disinformation and the phenomenon of hyperreality, demands the role of academics in maintaining the quality of public discourse. Media literacy and communication ethics become crucial so that communication is not only effective but also civilised,” said Nurhayani.
Meanwhile, Augustina emphasised the importance of a new approach in financial management. Aspects of sustainability and justice are increasingly relevant in the modern economic system.
“Issues of fair distribution, sustainability, and orientation towards human values become important parts of managing the modern economic system,” said Augustina.