Yogyakarta, 25 November 2025 — The Doctoral Program in Dental Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), organized a Character Strengthening Program for Doctoral (PhD) Students from Academic and Non-Academic Perspectives on 24–25 November 2025 at Java Village Resort, Sleman. This initiative represents a strategic effort to shape future doctoral graduates who excel not only academically but also possess strong character, ethical values, and global competitiveness.
The program was led by the Head of the Doctoral Program in Dental Sciences, FKG UGM, Prof. Dr. drg. Widowati Siswomihardjo, M.S., as the person in charge. She emphasized that doctoral students face increasingly complex challenges, ranging from research demands and scientific integrity to self-management in maintaining balance between personal life and academic responsibilities.
“Doctoral students require not only strong scientific capacity but also solid character in order to endure, grow, and make meaningful contributions to society,” Prof. Widowati stated in her opening remarks.
Strengthening Academic Integrity and Resilience
The first day began with intensive mentoring under the theme “Refinement of Research Themes Based on Societal Needs”, guided by homebase faculty members: Prof. Ika Dewi Ana, drg. Nunuk Purwanti, Dr. Alma Linggar Jonarta, and drg. Dedy Kusuma Yulianto. This session provided an in-depth discussion forum for students to formulate relevant and impactful dissertation research directions.
In the afternoon session, psychologist and character development expert Prof. Dra. Raden Ajeng Yayi Suryo Prabandari, M.Si., Ph.D., delivered reflective and motivational material highlighting the importance of integrity, research ethics, and stress management throughout the doctoral journey.
The first day concluded with an evening gathering aimed at strengthening networking, togetherness, and emotional well-being among students and educators.
Development of Soft Skills and Leadership
The second day began with morning exercise to promote physical health. This was followed by soft skills training covering scientific communication, research leadership, and time management, facilitated by Dr. drg. Alma Linggar Jonarta, M.Kes. The training was designed to prepare students to become competent academics capable of leading multidisciplinary research teams.
The workshop was attended by more than 50 participants, including doctoral students, homebase lecturers, and academic staff of the Doctoral Program in Dental Sciences, FKG UGM.
Shaping Doctors with Strong Character and Global Competitiveness
Through this two-day program, the study program aims to instill strong academic values while building personal resilience among doctoral students in facing the dynamics of doctoral education.
“We want our students not only to successfully complete their doctoral programs but also to possess integrity and resilience as future scientists,” Prof. Widowati emphasized in her closing remarks.
This workshop reflects FKG UGM’s commitment to continuously improving the quality of doctoral education through a comprehensive approach—integrating academic excellence, professional skills, and personal character—to produce academic leaders who contribute to science and society at large.
(Reporter: Andri Wicaksono, S.Sos., M.I.Kom | Photo: Fajar Budi Harsakti, SE)
