UKDW and ITK Forge Partnership for Impactful Education
In today’s fast-changing era, collaboration has become essential for advancing knowledge and creating broader impact. Recognizing the importance of synergy between higher education institutions, Universitas Kristen Duta Wacana (UKDW) and Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK) Balikpapan have entered into a strategic partnership covering teaching, research, and community service.
The cooperation was formalized on Friday, August 29, 2025, through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UKDW Rector Dr.-Ing. Wiyatiningsih, S.T., M.T., and ITK’s Vice Rector for Finance and General Affairs, Ir. Khakim Gozali, M.MT, who represented the ITK Rector.
The MoU was followed by the signing of three collaboration agreements between UKDW’s Faculty of Architecture and Design and Department of Product Design, and ITK’s Faculty of Sustainable Development. These agreements are expected to pave the way for joint academic programs as well as integrated initiatives in teaching, research, and community engagement.
In his remarks, Khakim Gozali emphasized that the collaboration goes beyond academic pursuits. “This partnership is not only about developing knowledge, but also about fostering nationalism in the midst of Indonesia’s diversity. The exchange of information is crucial to raise achievements and create a wider impact,” he said.
Echoing this sentiment, ITK’s Dean of the Faculty of Sustainable Development, Ir. Alamsyah, S.T., M.T., welcomed the partnership and called for concrete action. He encouraged both institutions to translate the agreement into integrated programs that involve broader stakeholders.
The event also featured a public lecture titled “City for All: Participatory Design and Synergy of Higher Education Institutions in Realizing Inclusive Cities.” Delivered by Rector Wiyatiningsih, the lecture sparked an engaging discussion and generated new ideas for collaboration, particularly in advancing inclusive and sustainable urban development.
As part of academic development initiatives, UKDW’s Dean of the Faculty of Architecture and Design, Dr. Imelda Irmawati Damanik, S.T., MAUD, introduced the university’s Master of Architecture program as a pathway for ITK graduates seeking advanced studies. The program, she noted, provides valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Meanwhile from different location, the Head of ITK’s Architecture Department, Shelia, S.T., M.Eng., expressed her optimism about the collaboration. “Developing young talent at both ITK and UKDW is vital to addressing today’s challenges in architectural education and preparing for the future,” she said.
The partnership between UKDW and ITK is seen as a significant step toward building a stronger higher education ecosystem—one that not only supports academic excellence but also contributes meaningfully to national development.
W-ID: FAD/imelda | Ed. (ENG): drr
