Students from the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), have once again achieved an impressive milestone at the IMUNITY 2026 Quiz Bowl Competition, a national-level academic contest organized by the Student Executive Board of the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, on February 7, 2026.
Competing against 10 top teams from universities across Indonesia, FKG UGM students secured 2nd and 3rd place, demonstrating consistent academic excellence despite demanding clinical and academic schedules.
Individual Assessment Within a Team Framework
Unlike typical quiz competitions, IMUNITY 2026 adopted a format that required both individual strength and team cohesion. During the preliminary and semifinal rounds, each team member was assessed individually, with scores combined to determine advancement to the finals.
This structure made the competition not only a test of teamwork but also a measure of deep individual understanding.
“The biggest challenge was time management. Our schedules often overlapped, so we relied more on independent study than group discussions,” said Yahya Adinugraha Mumtaz (Clinical Student Class of 82).
He added that strong competition from other universities pushed them to perform at their best in every round. Awardees from FKG UGM:
2nd Place: Kiane Plano Jayatara (Clinical Student 86), Heseikel M.C. Tarihoran (Undergraduate 24), Daniys Aqela Shaleha (Undergraduate 24)
3rd Place: Kayla Ramadhani Sandy (Undergraduate 23), Daffa Muhafiz Rizky Rachmawan (Undergraduate 23), Yahya Adinugraha Mumtaz (Clinical Student 82)
The winners received development grants of IDR 1.5 million and IDR 1.25 million, respectively.
Short Preparation, Unwavering Spirit
Preparation time was limited due to busy clinical and academic schedules. However, this did not dampen their enthusiasm to study independently, practice questions, and deepen their understanding.
Participation in IMUNITY 2026 was not merely about winning titles. For the students, it was an opportunity to test academic abilities, gain competitive experience, build networks with students from across Indonesia, and represent their institution.
The team was guided by drg. Heriati Sitosari, M.D.Sc., Ph.D.who provided strategic mentorship throughout the preparation process.
For the students, this experience left a deep impression.
“This competition was an invaluable experience, both academically and in terms of teamwork,” Yahya said.
He also encouraged fellow students to step outside their comfort zones:
“Take every opportunity to grow. Experiences like this not only improve competence but also build mental resilience and confidence.”
This achievement reaffirms that despite demanding academic and clinical commitments, FKG UGM students remain highly competitive at the national level. IMUNITY 2026 was not just a competition, but a space for building character, resilience, and collaboration—values essential for future dental professionals.
(Reporter: Andri Wicaksono, Foto: Arsip Mumtaz FKG UGM)
