A total of 10 residents from the Periodontology Specialist Program at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), took part in the National Competency Examination on Sunday, 22 June 2025. This examination period was attended by participants from several universities, including Universitas Gadjah Mada, Universitas Hasanuddin, Universitas Padjadjaran, Universitas Indonesia, and Universitas Sumatera Utara.
The competency exam serves as an evaluation process to measure the achievement of specialist dentistry graduates in Indonesia. It assesses both theoretical knowledge and clinical skills required of a dental specialist in accordance with standards set by the Collegium and the Ministry of Health. The exam format generally consists of a (Computer-Based Test/CBT) serta ujian praktik berbasis objektif terstruktur (Objective Structured Clinical Examination/OSCE).
Head of the Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dentistry UGM, drg. drg. Kwartarini Murdiastuti, Sp.Perio (K), Ph.D., stated that the program had provided intensive guidance for all participants starting two weeks prior to the exam. “We not only facilitated intensive learning sessions but also assisted with administrative matters such as verifying that all ten participants are active residents of the Periodontology Specialist Program at UGM,” she explained.
Kwartarini emphasized that all residents of the program had been ensured to meet the competencies set by the Indonesian Periodontology Collegium. This is supported by the main teaching hospital, RSGM Prof. Soedomo, as well as three affiliated hospitals: Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, Dr. Hardjo Lukito Air Force Hospital, and Dr. Moewardi General Hospital. Through the diverse clinical cases and educational settings, residents gain comprehensive and high-standard clinical experience.
Another advantage of UGM’s Periodontology Specialist graduates lies in their focus on regenerative therapy and the latest dental technologies. “We encourage students to master regenerative techniques such as the use of platelet concentrates, as well as to become proficient with advanced surgical and suturing techniques using modern equipment. Scientific and technological updates are always integrated into our program,” she added.
Kwartarini further expressed her hopes that graduates would become not only competent but also socially responsible periodontists who support equitable access to dental care. “We hope our graduates will provide optimal services according to their competencies, not only in major cities but also in underdeveloped, remote, and border areas. Ideally, the government could reintroduce the Specialist Mandatory Service Program, similar to what once existed for general practitioners, to address the shortage of specialists in remote areas without having to establish specialist programs in every hospital,” she said.
A Supportive Learning Environment
Support from lecturers and a conducive academic atmosphere were also strongly felt by the exam participants. One of the residents, drg. Ernest, shared that the guidance provided by lecturers was invaluable for preparation. “We received two weeks of intensive supervision. The lecturers here strongly encourage us to graduate on time and are always open for consultations whenever we face difficulties in our studies,” he said.
A similar experience was shared by drg. Rahma, who praised the academic environment at UGM’s Faculty of Dentistry. She appreciated the openness and supportive interaction among residents. “Everyone here is willing to discuss, give feedback, and even spare their time to help when someone is struggling. This makes me feel that I am not going through this journey alone,” she said.
Author and Photographer: Fajar Budi Harsakti
