FK-KMK UGM. The Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing (FK-KMK) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) officially inaugurated the January 2024 batch of the Specialist Doctor Education Program (PPDS) in a ceremony held at the FK-KMK Auditorium, on Wednesday (18/12). The event was attended by new students, faculty members, and prominent figures in the medical field.
Prof. dr. Yodi Mahendradhata, M.Sc., Ph.D., FRSPH, Dean of FK-KMK UGM, expressed his appreciation for the incoming students who successfully navigated the highly competitive selection process.
“The number of applicants for the PPDS at FK-KMK UGM continues to increase by 5-6% annually. This period, 624 candidates applied, and 274 participants were admitted, comprising 246 specialist doctors and 28 sub-specialists. The selection process upholds principles of transparency, fairness, and accountability,” Prof. Yodi stated.
This year’s student profile reflects remarkable diversity, with 50.7% of the participants coming from outside Java, while the rest hail from Java. Additionally, 27 participants, or about 10%, were admitted through a special affirmative program for underserved regions, known as the 3T areas (remote, outermost, and disadvantaged regions). These participants represent areas such as Riau Islands, Mentawai, Berau, and Papua.
“We hope this diversity will strengthen FK-KMK UGM’s role in producing quality healthcare professionals capable of addressing health needs in all corners of the nation,” said dr. Arief Budiyanto, Ph.D., Sp.D.V.E., Subsp. O.B.K., Head of the PPDS program.
During the orientation session, Prof. Dr. Sutaryo emphasized UGM’s values rooted in nationalism and dignified education.
“UGM is a symbol of the rise of nationalism in Yogyakarta. We aspire for our students to excel not only clinically but also in character as they serve society,” he remarked.
Prof. Dra. Raden Ajeng Yayi Suryo Prabandari, M.Si., Ph.D., announced revisions to the clinical education curriculum for 2024, designed to reinforce the principles of dignified education, including ethics and patient respect.
dr. Tirta Mandira Hudhi, M.A.B., an FK-KMK UGM alumnus, influencer, and entrepreneur, shared valuable advice on social media usage.
“Using your professional title on social media means you’re under public scrutiny. Be ethical and responsible in the digital space, as it reflects your professionalism,” he urged.
This sentiment was echoed by dr. Eniarti, M.Sc., Sp.KJ, MMR, Director of Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, who welcomed the new participants and highlighted the importance of balance in communication.
“While mobile phones can bring distant people closer, beware they don’t drive those nearby further apart,” she quipped, eliciting laughter and enthusiasm from the audience.
This inaugural lecture marks the beginning of a long journey for the participants as they strive to become dignified specialist doctors. Prof. Yodi reminded students that being part of UGM is both an honor and a responsibility.
“More than feeling proud, be grateful. Use this opportunity wisely to learn and serve the community. Become a generation of doctors who bring positive change to the nation,” he concluded.
This event aligns with UGM’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3), Quality Education (SDG 4), Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9), Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17). The inaugural lecture has set a hopeful tone for a better healthcare future in Indonesia. (Isroq Adi Subakti/Reporter).
