Untar's Communication Faculty Turns 20, Rector Stresses University's Role in Strengthening Digital Literacy

The rapid flow of information in the digital realm presents new challenges for society. Amidst a flood of information that increasingly blurs the line between fact and hoax, higher education institutions are deemed necessary to take a greater role in strengthening public digital literacy. This role is among those undertaken by the Faculty of Communication (Fikom) at Universitas Tarumanagara (Untar), which this year marks its 20th anniversary. This was conveyed by Untar Rector Prof. Dr. Amad Sudiro, S.H., M.H., M.Kn., M.M., during the 20th Dies Natalis celebration of Fikom Untar at the Auditorium of Untar Campus I, Jakarta, on Tuesday (23/6/2026). On the occasion, Amad emphasised the importance of communication academics’ contribution in responding to the rapidly changing media landscape. According to him, the development of information technology has opened wide access to various information sources. However, at the same time, society is also faced with the challenge of sorting accurate information amidst rampant misinformation and disinformation. “Therefore, mitigation efforts are needed through strengthening digital literacy so that the public can address information critically and responsibly. Fikom Untar is expected to become a tuning fork whose resonance is felt across various layers of society,” said Amad. The 20th Dies Natalis of Fikom Untar carried the theme “Resonansi Rasa untuk Generasi” (Resonance of Empathy for the Generation). The theme reflects the importance of communication that not only conveys information but also builds empathy and connection within an increasingly diverse society. The two-decade anniversary also served as a moment of reflection on the journey Fikom Untar has taken, as well as a reaffirmation of its future direction. Dean of Fikom Untar, Dr. Sinta Paramita, S.I.P., M.A., expressed appreciation to the founders and all parties who have contributed to the faculty’s journey over the past two decades. Sinta affirmed Fikom Untar’s commitment to continue being a nurturing space for a generation that is creative, adaptive, and globally competitive. This commitment is realised through efforts to produce competent graduates while making tangible contributions to society. The Dies Natalis event was also attended by the Chairman of the Tarumanagara Foundation Board, Prof. Dr. Ariawan Gunadi, S.H., M.H., along with other university and foundation leaders. According to Ariawan, Fikom Untar is one of the study programmes highly sought after by prospective students. The high level of interest demonstrates the public’s great trust in the quality of education provided. Nevertheless, Ariawan reminded that rapid changes demand the education sector to continuously innovate. Therefore, Fikom needs to strengthen various academic innovations to remain relevant to industry needs and societal developments. He also assessed that Fikom must continue to cultivate empathy, the ability to build connections, and social awareness. “In this way, the graduates produced will not only be able to adapt to change but also provide a positive impact on society and national development,” concluded Ariawan.