The inauguration ceremony for new dentists at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), began with an enthusiastic and warm address from the Dean of FKG UGM. The solemn atmosphere quickly softened when the Dean opened his remarks with light-hearted humor, creating a friendly and welcoming tone for the newly inaugurated graduates.
Prof. drg. Suryono, S.H., M.M., Ph.D., Dean of FKG UGM, delivered several inspirational messages to the new dentists. He reminded them that the path to becoming a dentist marks the beginning of a great responsibility to improve public health. “Be dentists who are not only skilled in knowledge, but who also uphold integrity, empathy, and a genuine spirit of service to society,” he stated.
Prof. Suryono highlighted that the graduates’ future contributions will play an important role in supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Indonesia, particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being). He noted that the presence of competent dental professionals can help expand access to oral healthcare across the country, including at more than 4,000 community health centers (puskesmas) that are still in need of dentists.
In addition, Prof. Suryono encouraged the graduates to actively build professional networks and take advantage of the strong support offered by the FKG UGM alumni community spread throughout Indonesia. He explained that a solid alumni network can open many opportunities for service and career development, in line with SDG 4 (Quality Education), which emphasizes collaboration to enhance the capacity of healthcare professionals.
In closing, Prof. Suryono expressed his hope that the young dentists will continue to carry the spirit of service throughout their careers. He shared a reflective message that happiness in fulfilling one’s profession is key to success. Living with a sense of joy, he suggested, allows challenges to be viewed as opportunities rather than burdens.
This motivating address served as an encouragement for the graduates to become high-quality dental professionals in Indonesia. With the knowledge they have gained and the support of the academic community, they are expected to contribute positively to society and to the achievement of SDG 3 and SDG 4, while also supporting SDG 5 (Gender Equality) by promoting active roles for women in the field of dental health.).
Author: Dody Hendro Wibowo | Co-Author: Andri Wicaksono
Photo: Fajar Budi Harsakti
