UPH Design Week 2026: Answering the AI Challenge with True Design True Impact
Amidst the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) and the dynamics of the creative industry, the world of design is being called to transform. Today’s designers must not only focus on visual aesthetics but also on creating solutions that are relevant and have a real impact on society.
Responding to this challenge, the Faculty of Design at Universitas Pelita Harapan (UPH) officially opened the UPH Design Week 2026 series at Pelita Gallery, UPH Lippo Village Campus, Tangerang. Carrying the theme ‘True Design–True Impact’, the event, which runs from 19 to 27 June 2026, serves as a platform to prove that design is a bridge between human understanding, culture, and innovation.
UPH Rector Dr. (Hon.) Jonathan L. Parapak, M.Eng.Sc., stressed during the opening that the presence of AI should not threaten human creativity. Instead, he said, this technology should be seen as a tool to enrich the creative process. ‘I believe technology can enrich the design process, making it better and faster, without losing originality or reflection on societal and cultural values,’ Parapak stated in his remarks.
Echoing this sentiment, Dean of the UPH Faculty of Design, Dr. Ir. Susinety Prakoso, MAUD, MLA., asserted that the talents of students must be channelled into meaningful work. According to her, design should not be solely oriented towards material gain or visual beauty, but must bring a positive impact to others.
Dr. Julia Dewi, S.T., M.T., Chair of the UPH Design Week 2026 committee, highlighted the importance of cross-disciplinary synergy. This year’s theme brings together various study programmes, including Architecture, Visual Communication Design (DKV), Interior Design, and Product Design. ‘Impactful design cannot be done alone. Collaboration is essential so that ideas do not stop as mere concepts, but can be realised and provide tangible benefits,’ Julia explained.
Beyond exhibitions and discussions, the event also features a Pop-Up Store showcasing student-led creative business units, as well as a Design Experience Tour for prospective students wishing to explore the learning environment at UPH.
Through UPH Design Week 2026, Universitas Pelita Harapan is committed to producing graduates who are adaptive to the changing times while firmly upholding humanistic values.