The national competency examination is often perceived as the most stressful moment in the journey of specialist dental education. However, for students of the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), the examination is no longer something to fear, but rather the final stage to be faced with confidence after a comprehensive educational process.
This experience was shared by drg. Jessy, a resident of the Periodontology Specialist Program at FKG UGM, who took the National Competency Examination (UKOM) on 19 December 2025. According to her, anxiety can be minimized because exam preparation is built from the very beginning of the program, not only shortly before the examination date.
“Prior to the exam, we received intensive academic guidance from lecturers, which made us feel more prepared for both the CBT and OSCE components. In addition, the environment among residents is very healthy and mutually supportive,” said Jessy (23/12).
Jessy was one of four residents from the Periodontology Specialist Program at FKG UGM who participated in the UKOM during this period. The examination serves as the final stage before residents are declared graduates and officially recognized as periodontology specialists.
For her, the academic environment at FKG UGM played a significant role in making the educational process both challenging and enjoyable. Her decision to pursue specialist education at FKG UGM was influenced by her previous experience completing undergraduate and professional dental education at the same faculty, as well as the supportive and highly committed character of the lecturers, particularly within the Department of Periodontology.
Students’ readiness for the UKOM is closely linked to the education system implemented by the Periodontology Specialist Program at FKG UGM. The Head of the Periodontology Specialist Program, Dr. drg. Rezmelia Sari, MSc., Sp.Perio., SubSp. R.P.I.D(K), explained that preparation for the competency examination has been systematically designed from the early stages of education.
“Residents are prepared gradually through tiered clinical training, lecturer mentorship, as well as simulations and briefings prior to the UKOM. The program provides comprehensive support, covering academic, clinical, and professional aspects,” she stated.
Furthermore, drg. Rezmelia explained that graduates of the Periodontology Specialist Program at FKG UGM possess distinctive strengths, including a strong scientific foundation, sound clinical reasoning skills, and a comprehensive periodontal treatment approach based on evidence-based dentistry, particularly in the field of periodontal regeneration. In addition to clinical skills, students are also equipped with academic competencies and interdisciplinary collaboration abilities.
“Beyond clinical proficiency, our graduates are also trained in academic and interdisciplinary collaboration. This is essential to ensure they can work professionally within complex healthcare teams,” she added.
After completing the long educational process and competency examination, drg. Rezmelia advised students to become competent, ethical, and integrity-driven periodontists. Graduates of the program are expected to provide high-quality periodontal care and contribute to scientific development and the improvement of public periodontal health, while upholding the reputation of UGM.
Writer and Photojournalist: Fajar Budi Harsakti
