Moment for FEB UGM Civitas Academic and Alumni to Strengthen Regional Connections and Collaboration

Pekanbaru – Friday, April 10th 2026

The Faculty of Economics and Business Universitas Gadjah Mada (FEB UGM) once again held the Alumni Sharing Session with the theme “Reconnect, Reminisce, and Reignite” in Pekanbaru on Friday (April 10th). It is hosted at the Bertuah Hall of the Pangeran Hotel, served as a gathering opportunity and platform to strengthen synergy between the civitas academic, alumni, and industry partners around Pekanbaru city.

The event was officially opened by Dr. Gumilang Aryo Sahadewo, Vice Dean of Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni Affairs. In his remarks, he emphasized that FEB UGM not only offers numerous flagship programs but also continues to transform by expanding its global network with more than 80 international partners. Development focuses on academic excellence and industrial practice.

The discussion session was highly interactive, highlighting various issues, especially in postgraduate education. This dialogue provided clarity for prospective students and alumni regarding the implementation of a more adaptive and inclusive curriculum. One topic that gathered attention was the fundamental differences between the Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Science (MSc) programs. According to Prof. Gugup Kismono, the Board of Directors of the MBA program at the FEB UGM Jakarta Campus, the MBA emphasizes practical application and leadership. The MSc focuses on strengthening research and academic pathways. FEB UGM offers opportunities for MBA graduates to become lecturers in specific contexts, depending on the needs and applicable institutional policies.

Furthermore, FEB UGM is also innovating its matriculation and recognition of prior learning (RPL) process for prospective students. The matriculation scheme is planned to be simplified through the Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC) program. Through the RPL scheme, professional work experience can also be converted into academic credit. For those who have not complied with the requirements, a short refreshment program will be provided as an alternative way. In addition, a doctoral program is currently being designed with the aim of completing it within three years. This effort aims to support accelerated study through a more structured and integrated system.

The last session continued with an Alumni Gathering and Talkshow with KAGAMA Riau. The discussion revealed that Riau is one of the strongest and most significant bases for FEB UGM alumni. Alumni play a crucial role as institutional ambassadors as well as a crucial instrument in enhancing UGM’s global reputation through active participation in industry and academic surveys. In closing, FEB UGM expressed its commitment to continuously embracing talent from various regions, opening up opportunities for regional graduates to continue their studies at UGM, and strengthening the network among alumni, prospective students, and the institution.

Reporter: Alfian Rama Aditya
Editor: Suci Hapsari