The Master of Business Administration Program at the Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Gadjah Mada (MBA FEB UGM) has once again achieved a remarkable academic milestone. Zaki Permana, a student from cohort JOG-SEMBA-42, has made history as the first and best graduate of the Sustainability Management concentration, earning an outstanding Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.98. This achievement marks an important milestone in advancing sustainability-focused education within MBA FEB UGM.
Zaki Permana, part of the 2023 intake, officially began his studies at MBA FEB UGM on February 1, 2024. With strong academic commitment, he successfully completed all coursework within the Sustainability Management concentration with excellent results. His accomplishment not only reflects academic excellence but also demonstrates a deep concern and long-term vision for sustainability issues, which are becoming increasingly relevant in the fields of business and management.
Born in Pekalongan on December 6, 1987, Zaki shared his motivation for choosing the Sustainability Management concentration: “I see sustainability as the future, and in Indonesia, it is still not widely popular. I believe there are many opportunities in this field,” he explained. He also described his learning experience in the program as highly enlightening. According to him, the academic journey not only expanded his knowledge but also deepened his understanding of the importance of taking a proactive stance on environmental issues, particularly in supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Zaki’s thesis, titled “Critical Success Factors of the Lumbung Mataraman Project in the Special Region of Yogyakarta,” examines the Lumbung Mataraman program funded through the Special Allocation Fund and implemented at the provincial, village, and sub-district levels. The program emphasizes community participation through a culturally grounded approach rooted in Yogyakarta’s local wisdom, reflected in the philosophy “Nandur opo sing dipangan, mangan opo sing ditandur” (plant what you eat, eat what you plant). Through his research, Zaki identified key success factors of the program, which are expected to be replicated and serve as recommendations for local governments. The study holds strong relevance to sustainability issues, particularly in strengthening food security.
Zaki views the Sustainability Management concentration as a strategic choice with vast opportunities that should not be overlooked. The concentration not only equips students with a more specialized understanding of strategic management but also provides essential skills to navigate future uncertainties. He encourages fellow students to fully engage in the learning process and actively initiate sustainability-driven efforts through collaboration with various stakeholders, ensuring that sustainability practices extend beyond the classroom and create tangible impacts on society and the environment.
MBA FEB UGM extends its congratulations to Zaki Permana on his achievement as the first and best graduate of the Sustainability Management concentration. May this accomplishment mark the beginning of meaningful contributions toward building a sustainable business future and generating positive impacts for society.
Reporters: Fitrianti Rizqi Amalia, Vinda Anggun P., Raina Satmika
Editor: Ayu Aprilia
