Mataram, June 5, 2025 — The University of Mataram, through its Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP), successfully held the Orientation Program for the 2025 Batch 1 In-Service Teacher Professional Education Program (PPG) at Lombok Plaza Hotel. The event was attended by 3,659 enthusiastic teachers from various regions across Indonesia.

The orientation began with a report from the Coordinator of the In-Service PPG Program, Dr. Baharuddin, M.Hum., who emphasized the importance of discipline, readiness, and commitment throughout the intensive learning process ahead. Participants were also briefed on the program’s learning procedures, code of conduct, and assignment mechanisms integrated within the certification-based PPG curriculum.

A welcoming speech was delivered by the Dean of FKIP Unram, Drs. Lalu Zulkifli, M.Si., Ph.D., who expressed his appreciation for the teachers’ participation in this national program. He encouraged all participants to fully engage with the program until they earn their professional teaching certification. “We hope that each of you will complete this program successfully and emerge as professional, high-integrity educators,” he stated.

The event was officially opened by Prof. Dr. Sukardi, M.Pd., Vice Rector II of the University of Mataram, representing the Rector, Prof. Ir. Bambang Hari Kusumo, M.Agr.St., Ph.D. In his remarks, he highlighted Unram’s commitment, as a university with “Excellent” accreditation status, to support PPG participants through qualified faculty members, including professors and Ph.D. holders. He also underscored the importance of strong soft skills and adaptability for teachers—especially those in early childhood education—to thrive in the digital age.

The orientation also included discussions on Indonesia’s broader educational vision, referencing insights from the Minister of Defense, Prabowo Subianto, who emphasized the urgency of strengthening the role of adaptive, professional teachers in the technological era. The PPG program aims not only to improve academic qualifications but also to develop integrity, critical thinking, digital literacy, and creativity as part of 21st-century teaching competencies.

During the orientation, participants were introduced to independent learning platforms such as Ruang Guru, which provides structured certification modules with specified credits and timelines. They were also reminded of the strict requirement to submit original learning journals, as academic integrity and the avoidance of plagiarism are essential for passing the Teacher Professional Competency Examination (UKMPPG). One of the key challenges noted was the online nature of assessments, which require strong time management and independent learning skills.

The University of Mataram reaffirmed its commitment to achieving a high graduation rate—targeting over 99%, as in previous years—by offering intensive technical assistance and access to high-quality learning resources. The orientation concluded with an atmosphere of optimism, as participants prepared to embark on their journey toward becoming transformative, professional, and globally competent educators.

This initiative also supports the achievement of several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4: Quality Education, Goal 5: Gender Equality, and Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. By enhancing teacher competencies, the PPG program directly strengthens the national education system and contributes meaningfully to sustainable development across Indonesia.