On 3 October 2024, the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM) officially graduated 26 new dentists. The ceremony, held at the Margono Soeradji Building, was attended by the Chair of the Regional Board of the Indonesian Dental Association (PDGI) for Yogyakarta Special Region, Prof. Soedomo, the Director of UGM’s Dental and Oral Hospital (RSGM UGM), alumni representatives, faculty deans, and parents of the graduates.
The event began with the reading of the professional dentist certificate, led by drg. Rosa Amalia, M.Kes., Ph.D., the Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs at FKG UGM. The 26 graduates, having fulfilled all requirements for the professional dentistry program and passed the Indonesian Dental Profession Competency Examination (UKMP2DG), took the dentist’s oath, accompanied by religious leaders.
In her address, drg. Margareta Rinastiti, M.Kes., Ph.D., Sp.KG(K), Vice Dean for Finance, Assets, and Human Resources at FKG UGM, expressed pride and congratulated the graduates. She highlighted that the experiences gained during their studies extended beyond academics, encompassing potential development in sports, arts, and leadership. “FKG UGM believes that each of your sons and daughters is a unique individual with distinctive characteristics, and we appreciate this holistic development,” she remarked before announcing the Dentistry Award recipients.
The Dentistry Award was given based on various criteria, including cumulative GPA, study duration, research publications, academic and non-academic achievements, and involvement in student organizations. The recipients for the Third Graduation Period of 2024 were drg. Radinda Faridzya Fitriyanto, drg. Himmatul Hasanah, and drg. Talitha Xaviera Nada, who were recognized for their outstanding contributions and achievements during their studies.
The ceremony concluded with a prayer of gratitude led by a religious leader. Faculty leaders, professors, and invited guests then personally congratulated the new dentists and their parents or guardians, adding warmth to the closing of the event.
This event not only marked a significant milestone in the careers of the new dentists but also underscored the importance of access to education and capacity development in dentistry. FKG UGM continues to strive for excellence in education, ensuring that its graduates are well-prepared to face challenges in the healthcare sector.
The presence of various stakeholders, including alumni and representatives from dental associations, reflected a collaborative effort to improve the quality of dental education and practice in Indonesia. This commitment aligns with the broader goals of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all. The event reaffirmed the new dentists' dedication to upholding ethical standards and providing quality care to their future patients, in line with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 4 (Quality Education).
Authors : Niswati FR, Dhea | Editor : Bagas Prakoso
