Mataram, University of Mataram — The University of Mataram (Unram) has once again reaffirmed its commitment to being an inclusive university by ensuring that every Indonesian has equal access to higher education. This commitment was demonstrated through a personal visit by Unram Rector, Prof. Dr. Sukardi, M.Pd. accompanied by the Vice Regent of East Lombok, Ir. H. Moh. Edwin Hadiwijaya, M.M., to the home of Muhammad Fatoni Ginan Nafsi, a prospective student with a physical disability, in Karang Luar Hamlet, Lenek Village, East Lombok Regency, on Friday (July 31).

During the visit, Unram provided a range of support to ensure that Fatoni can pursue his studies without being hindered by financial constraints or limited access. The assistance includes a full tuition fee waiver (UKT), student dormitory accommodation, a laptop to support his studies, and efforts to connect him with a foster parent sponsor to help sustain his education.

In his remarks, Prof. Sukardi emphasized that higher education is the right of every citizen, regardless of physical condition or social background.

“The University of Mataram is an inclusive campus. Everyone has the right to pursue higher education. I have also heard that Fatoni has an impressive academic record. What matters most is to keep learning, stay motivated, and continue striving to achieve your dreams,” he said.

Fatoni has been admitted to Unram’s Industrial Engineering Study Program. For him, choosing Unram is not merely about continuing his education, but also about taking a significant step toward achieving his aspirations, improving his family’s future, and repaying the kindness of those who have supported him throughout his journey.

“Although I have physical limitations, they have never limited my determination to pursue knowledge. Instead, they motivate me to prove that I can achieve my dreams,” he said.

Fatoni’s path to higher education has not been easy. In addition to living with a physical disability, he has faced profound personal challenges. His mother passed away while giving birth to him, and his father is currently undergoing treatment while in a coma. Despite these hardships, he has never allowed adversity to diminish his determination to continue learning.

Learning about the support provided by Unram became one of the most emotional moments in his life. The tuition waiver, student housing, laptop assistance, and the university’s plan to find him a foster parent significantly eased the burdens he had been carrying.

“When I heard about all this support, I couldn’t hold back my tears—not because I was sad, but because it felt as though a burden I had carried for so long had suddenly been lifted,” Fatoni shared.

He also admitted that he had initially been anxious about adapting to university life. However, the care and encouragement he received from the university community gradually replaced his worries with confidence.

“I hope my journey as a student at the University of Mataram will be an extraordinary experience. The support from the university has given me greater confidence to keep learning and growing. My message to others is: never lose hope, and never let limitations prevent you from pursuing your dreams,” he said.

Mugni Labib, the Head of Karang Luar Hamlet, who has known Fatoni since childhood, described him as a determined individual who has never allowed his physical condition to diminish his self-confidence.

“He has always had a strong spirit. He has never looked down on himself. Whatever he wants to achieve, he works hard for it. He is persistent and never gives up,” Mugni said.

According to Mugni, Fatoni received tremendous support from his classmates throughout his school years, with friends taking turns accompanying him to and from school. His perseverance has inspired the local community and strengthened their belief that he has a bright future ahead.

“Seeing his determination, I truly believe Fatoni has every opportunity to succeed. We will continue to support and pray for him as he pursues his education at the University of Mataram,” he added.

Beyond his friendly personality, Fatoni has also developed skills in art and design. Mugni revealed that Fatoni has even been entrusted with operating woodworking production equipment in his workshop, demonstrating that physical limitations have never prevented him from being creative and making meaningful contributions.

The Rector’s visit to Fatoni serves as a powerful reminder that higher education should be accessible to everyone without discrimination. Through its commitment to inclusivity, Unram is not only expanding educational access for students with disabilities but also providing the support they need to reach their full potential.

This initiative also reflects Unram’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting inclusive and equitable access to education, SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by ensuring equal opportunities for persons with disabilities, and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) by strengthening a fair, inclusive, and non-discriminatory higher education system.