The Faculty of Dentistry of Universitas Islam Sultan Agung (FKG UNISULA) Semarang conducted a comparative study visit and academic discussion with the Faculty of Dentistry at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM) on January 13, 2026, in preparation for establishing a Pediatric Dentistry Specialist Program (SpKGA).
The visit was welcomed by FKG UGM leadership and faculty members. Discussions were intensive and comprehensive, covering national policy, curriculum design, human resources, infrastructure readiness, and teaching hospital networks.
Responding to National Specialist Workforce Needs
The Dean of FKG UGM emphasized that establishing specialist programs must be viewed within the context of national needs. The government, through the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Higher Education, is accelerating the provision of medical and specialist personnel to address healthcare distribution disparities.
Thousands of hospitals nationwide still lack dental specialists, including pediatric dental specialists. Under conventional training models, fulfilling this need could take decades. Therefore, collaboration between universities, hospitals, and government is essential.
The UNISULA Faculty of Dentistry (FKG) delegation explained that the institution's relatively young age is not a barrier to innovation and contribution. Considering the opportunities presented by current government policies, UNISULA sees the need for swift and measured action. The establishment of the SPKGA study program is considered strategic, not only for institutional development but also as a form of community service, particularly in pediatric dental health services.
The Faculty of Dentistry (FKG) at UNISULA also affirmed its commitment to meeting all requirements for establishing a study program, including human resources, a curriculum based on collegiate regulations, and the readiness of clinical education facilities. In this context, UNISULA hopes to receive academic guidance and development from the Faculty of Dentistry (FKG) at UGM, a national reference institution with experience in providing specialist education.
Technical Discussions: Curriculum, HR, and Teaching Hospitals
Discussions included curriculum alignment with the Indonesian Medical Council and professional college regulations, program distinctiveness, credit allocation, and competency-based approaches.
FKG UGM explained its transformation toward topic- and competency-based specialist education.
The importance of teaching hospital networks was also emphasized, including satellite and community hospitals that meet regulatory standards and supervision requirements.
Policy as Opportunity & Long-Term Collaboration
FKG UGM’s Dean encouraged institutions to view evolving policies—such as hospital-based education—as opportunities rather than threats.
FKG UGM expressed openness to formal cooperation agreements and academic mentoring.
Policy as Opportunity & Long-Term Collaboration
The visit concluded with a joint photo session and exchange of souvenirs, symbolizing commitment to long-term collaboration.
Through synergy between UNISULA and UGM, the establishment of the Pediatric Dentistry Specialist Program at UNISULA is expected to proceed with quality and contribute significantly to improving pediatric oral healthcare services in Central Java and beyond.
Reporter: Andri Wicaksono, Photographer: Fajar Budi Harsakti
