Mataram, University of Mataram — The University of Mataram held the Scientific Oration and Open Senate Session in celebration of its 63rd Dies Natalis on Wednesday (November 5) at the Senate Conference Hall. Carrying the theme “Transforming into a World-Class University for Golden Indonesia,” the event marked a significant moment in reaffirming the university’s commitment to strengthening its global competitiveness in higher education.

The session was officially opened by the Chair of the Unram Senate, Dr. Ir. Sukartono, M.Agr. The agenda then continued with remarks from the Rector of Unram, Prof. Ir. Bambang Hari Kusumo, M.Agr.St., Ph.D., who reflected on Unram’s 63-year journey, the strategic achievements accomplished, and the university’s future direction as it prepares to navigate global challenges and the transformation of higher education.

“Unram has reached its 63rd year, a long journey marked by exceptional growth and transformation. From the leadership of our first rector to the present day, Unram has evolved into a university of excellence with strong competitiveness at both national and international levels. This achievement reflects not only the efforts of today’s generation, but the legacy built by those who came before us, who laid the strong foundation upon which this university continues to grow,” said the Rector of Unram.

He also emphasized that Unram is currently in an acceleration phase toward becoming a university with international recognition. He highlighted that innovation must not end at publication, but should generate real impact for society through research, policy advocacy, and the strengthening of academic ecosystems.

“Unram is not only a hub of knowledge, but a hub of solutions. The university must be present among communities, within industries, and in policy spaces. That is the true essence of higher education transformation today,” he asserted.

Also delivering remarks, the Governor of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), Dr. H. Lalu Muhamad Iqbal, S.IP., M.Si., conveyed his congratulations while offering a personal reflection on Unram’s remarkable journey. He emphasized that the university’s contribution extends beyond academic achievements Unram has helped shape and elevate the identity and reputation of NTB at the national level.

The Governor of NTB also conveyed his appreciation for the substantial contribution of Unram’s professors in shaping regional development policies across key sectors, including agriculture, energy, and island management.

“I do not want to lead a government that overlooks the role of scientists. From the very beginning, we have involved the university in the decision-making process. Many of NTB’s achievements today are the product of strong collaboration between the provincial government and Unram,” he affirmed.

As part of the 63rd Dies Natalis series, the event also featured a Scientific Oration delivered by Pungkas Bahjuri Ali, STP, MS., Ph.D., Deputy for Human Development and Culture at the Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas RI), titled “Research-Based National Development Transformation: Synergy Between Government and Universities to Achieve Food Sovereignty Toward Golden Indonesia 2045.”

In his address, he emphasized that research is no longer merely an academic pursuit, but a strategic instrument for shaping public policy and a foundational pillar for national development particularly in advancing food sovereignty and knowledge-based industrialization.

The Scientific Oration, held as part of the 63rd Dies Natalis celebration, concluded with the awarding of certificates of appreciation to faculty members and staff who have successfully completed their Master’s and Doctoral degree programs.

Through this event, Unram reaffirms its commitment to strengthening its role as a globally competitive university. As it enters its 63rd year, Unram embarks on a new chapter of academic transformation toward becoming a World-Class University, while reinforcing its contribution to Indonesia’s journey toward Golden Indonesia 2045.