From 15-21 July 2024, the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM) hosted the Dental Summer Course 2024, themed "Innovations in Digital Dentistry for Inclusive Oral Health: Addressing Special Needs." This event attracted attention not only from the dental community but also from various groups concerned with special needs in dental care. In this event, two lecturers from the Department of Dental Biomaterials (IBKG) at FKG UGM, drg. Mutiara Annisa, MDSc, and drg. Dyah Anindya Widyasrini, MDSc, served as tutors for a group of international students from various ASEAN countries.
As tutors, drg. Mutiara and drg. Anin led their respective groups of students to create innovative solutions to address dental health challenges in children with special needs. Each group, led by drg. Mutiara and drg. Anin, consisted of students with diverse academic backgrounds.
Throughout the event, students were given the challenge to engage in project discussions and develop creative ideas. These projects aimed to generate solutions that could be applied in dental care for children with special needs. At the end of the event, the projects were presented in a pitching contest, where each group showcased their work.
For drg. Mutiara, the experience of being a tutor was a valuable opportunity. "I am very proud to see how students from various countries worked together and thought critically to create innovative and inclusive solutions. This is more than just a scientific discussion; it is about how we can make a real impact on underserved communities," she said enthusiastically.
Meanwhile, drg. Anin was also inspired by the students' dedication. The group she led even won second place in the pitching contest with their innovative project. "I am not only proud of their achievement but also of how they integrated digital technology to improve dental health for children with special needs. I hope these projects can be realized one day," said drg. Anin.
The projects developed by the students included various innovations, such as a digital application to facilitate communication between dentists and patients with disabilities, as well as a training program for parents on maintaining oral health for children with special needs. Interestingly, the group led by drg. Anin designed a solution in the form of a mobile health bus that travels to provide dental care and therapy for children with special needs.
This event demonstrates FKG UGM's significant contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG Goal 10 (Reduced Inequality). By providing inclusive health solutions for children with special needs, this initiative shows that innovations in dentistry can have a positive impact on the global community.
Contributor: drg. Mutiara Annisa, MDSc | Author: Diva Luthfi
