Yogyakarta – The recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Universitas Kristen Duta Wacana (UKDW) and Persekutuan Gereja-Gereja di Indonesia Indonesia (PGI) on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at the UKDW Rectorate Meeting Room, signifies a momentous stride in fortifying the bond between higher education institutions and churches in Indonesia. Notable attendees included Rev. Gomar Gultom, Chairman of PGI, Rev. Lenta E. Simbolon, Mdiv, Th.M., Executive Secretary of PGI, Dr.-Ing. Wiyatiningsih, S.T., M.T., Rector of UKDW, and representatives from UKDW. This MoU is designed to establish tangible cooperation between UKDW and churches affiliated with PGI. Through this collaboration, the aim is to cultivate a robust synergy bridging the realms of education and religion, thereby bolstering Tri Dharma of Higher Education, encompassing education, research, and community service. The MoU underscores commitments from both entities to bolster existing programs and explore new initiatives for mutual benefit.
During the event, Dr. Wiyatiningsih highlighted UKDW’s extensive history of collaboration with churches in Indonesia, spanning research endeavors and community outreach initiatives led by faculty and students alike. Furthermore, UKDW’s expertise in information system management within higher education was commended, as the institution has played a pivotal role in assisting universities across the eastern region in developing comprehensive information systems, from academic platforms to financial infrastructures. “We are eager to collaborate with PGI and explore potential partnership opportunities,” remarked Dr. Wiyatiningsih. On the other hand, Rev. Gomar Gultom expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing PGI’s aim to rekindle connections with Christian universities nationwide and address the pressing need for Christian educators within the education sector. “Our current education landscape demands improvements, particularly in terms of nurturing Christian educators, whose presence is increasingly scarce in schools. This is a shared concern that requires collective action,” Rev. Gultom stated.
The signing of this MoU heralds a new era of strengthened ties between UKDW and PGI, paving the way for collaborative efforts that align with their respective missions and aspirations. As an institution committed to fostering generations of integrity, intelligence, and social consciousness, UKDW views this MoU as a strategic leap forward in broadening collaborative networks and elevating the quality of education imparted to students. With PGI’s support, UKDW is poised to continue its trajectory of growth and make impactful contributions to society and the nation at large. Through sustained and purposeful collaboration, both entities endeavor to champion values of truth, justice, and compassion within the broader societal framework. [Lia/trans.drr]