The Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), officially signed a Strategic Cooperation Agreement with the Indonesian College of Orthodontics. The signing ceremony coincided with the official opening of the National Competency Examination (UKOMNAS) for the Orthodontics Specialist Dental Education Program (PPDGS), held at the Margono Soeradji Building, FKG UGM, on Friday, July 24, 2026.
The event was marked by a warm and collegial atmosphere. It began with the presentation of commemorative gifts from the Indonesian College of Orthodontics to FKG UGM, followed by a group photograph featuring the College's executive board, the faculty leadership, examiners, and all orthodontic residents participating in the national examination.
In her welcoming remarks, drg. Trianna Wahyu Utami, MD.Sc., Ph.D., Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, and Cooperation at FKG UGM, expressed her appreciation for the trust placed in the faculty by the Indonesian College of Orthodontics. She emphasized that the partnership extends well beyond hosting the national competency examination and will serve as a foundation for broader collaboration in education, research, and community engagement.
"It is a great honor for us that the Indonesian College of Orthodontics has chosen to establish a Strategic Cooperation Agreement with FKG UGM. We sincerely hope that this collaboration will extend far beyond the National Competency Examination and enable FKG UGM to continue supporting the College's various initiatives in advancing orthodontics in Indonesia," said Dr. Trianna. ujar drg. Trianna.
She concluded her remarks by encouraging the examination participants through a traditional Yogyakarta-style rhyme, reminding them that true professionalism is reflected in a lifelong commitment to delivering high-quality specialist care.
The Chair of the Indonesian College of Orthodontics, Dr. drg. Nia Ayu Ismaniati, MDSc., Sp.Ort., Subsp. D.Dkf.T.K., officially opened the National Competency Examination for the Orthodontics Specialist Dental Education Program. In her address, she expressed appreciation for the excellent preparation, hospitality, and professionalism demonstrated by FKG UGM and the local organizing committee in hosting this national event.
Dr. Nia emphasized that the National Competency Examination is far more than a graduation requirement—it serves as a safeguard for maintaining the quality and professionalism of orthodontic specialists in Indonesia. She also reminded residents that, after graduation, they would face increasing challenges from individuals offering inadequate short-term orthodontic training without proper professional qualifications, practices that may ultimately compromise patient safety.
"This examination is not simply about passing. The Indonesian College of Orthodontics has established rigorous standards to ensure the quality of our graduates. Outside the academic environment, there are many challenges posed by individuals who lack the necessary competencies. Once you graduate, you must uphold the reputation of both your alma mater and the College by providing high-quality, ethical patient care while remaining committed to lifelong learning," she said.
The National Competency Examination for the Orthodontics Specialist Dental Education Program was scheduled to take place over two consecutive days. Both the Indonesian College of Orthodontics and the leadership of FKG UGM expressed their hope that all participants would complete the examination successfully, remain in good health throughout the process, and achieve a 100 percent pass rate. Through the signing of this Strategic Cooperation Agreement, FKG UGM and the Indonesian College of Orthodontics reaffirm their shared commitment to producing highly qualified orthodontic specialists who demonstrate professional excellence, integrity, and a dedication to providing the highest standards of oral healthcare for the Indonesian community.
Authors: Nanda Ayu; Andri Wicaksono
Photo: Dody Hendro