The Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), Prof. drg. Suryono, S.H., M.M., Ph.D., emphasized the importance of positioning dental education as a force that delivers tangible impact for society. This was conveyed during the Workshop on the Development of Dental Education and Health Services at the Dental and Oral Hospital (RSGM) related to the Teaching Hospital Program, organized by the UGM Dental and Oral Hospital on Wednesday, 5 November 2025.
“The educational process should create an impact that can be felt by the community. FKG UGM not only excels in knowledge, but is also present within society,” stated Prof. Suryono.
In his presentation, the Dean of FKG UGM highlighted the limited availability of dental health services in several regions of Indonesia. He viewed this condition as an opportunity for educational institutions to play a more active role in supporting the equitable distribution of health services.
“Many regions in Indonesia still lack adequate dental health professionals. This opens up space for universities to help address community needs through education and community service,” he explained.
As a concrete step, FKG UGM is committed to expanding the role of education through community service activities and plans to deploy health professionals to underserved areas. This program is expected to broaden access to dental health services while also serving as a community-based learning platform for students.
The Dean of FKG UGM also stressed that education must be adaptive to dynamic changes. “We must be able to adapt to less-than-ideal situations in order to continue serving the community. The key is to view every challenge as an opportunity,” he expressed.
On the same occasion, Prof. Suryono added that the spirit of collaboration between faculties, teaching hospitals, and the community is part of FKG UGM’s efforts to prepare competent health professionals with a strong spirit of service.
“Education rooted in service will produce graduates who are not only academically excellent, but also possess strong social awareness,” he concluded.
Author and Photographer: Fajar Budi Harsakti
