UNIJA Commits to Global Competitiveness and Pursues State University Status

SUMENEP — The 39th anniversary of Universitas Wiraraja (UNIJA) Madura served as a pivotal moment for institutional reflection and future projection. During a solemn Open Senate Meeting held at the Pendapa Agung Keraton Sumenep on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, the university’s academic community reaffirmed its commitment to a transformative agenda.

The event, themed “Wiraraja’s Impact on the Nation,” featured Prof. Dr. H. Mohammad Mahfud Mahmodin, S.H., S.U., M.I.P., the former Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, as the keynote speaker.

A Vision for Excellence and Global Engagement

In his academic address, UNIJA Rector Dr. Sjaifurrachman, S.H., C.N., M.H., highlighted the institution’s nearly four decades of significant contributions to national development, particularly within the Madura region. He articulated a strategic vision for the university’s future. “We will maintain and enhance the university’s existence to achieve high competitiveness and gain the trust of society, from the local to the global level,” he stated.

To realize this ambitious vision, Dr. Sjaifurrachman underscored UNIJA’s commitment to implementing Good University Governance. This principle, he explained, serves as a cornerstone for strengthening institutional management and developing human resources. “This is, of course, based on transparency, accountability, and continuous quality improvement,” he added. The rector also emphasized the university’s focus on internationalization and improving the quality of its graduates through student and research exchange programs, aiming to produce graduates with both global competence and a strong national character.

Adopting a Modern Curriculum and Gaining Political Support

Dr. Sjaifurrachman further elaborated on UNIJA’s curriculum, which is based on the Outcome Based Education (OBE) approach. This pedagogical framework is considered fundamental to ensuring the relevance of the university’s education to the demands of the professional world. “This curriculum focuses on learning achievements and is outcome-centered. It is not merely about completing theoretical studies but also about achieving well-measured and desired results,” he explained.

The university’s transformative initiatives have garnered significant support from prominent figures, including Prof. Mahfud MD. He openly endorsed the university’s bid to become a State University (PTN), a move he considers strategic for equitable access to higher education on Madura Island. “The proposal for UNIJA Madura to become a PTN is an excellent initiative to meet the educational needs in Sumenep. We must support this noble intention,” he stated. Prof. Mahfud also acknowledged UNIJA’s proven record of positive contributions to society, viewing the institutional transformation as a deserving recognition of its service.

The Dies Natalis celebration concluded with the launch of new names for the campus’s classrooms. The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including the Vice Regent of Sumenep, K.H. Imam Hasyim, M.H., renowned National Culturalist K.H. D. Zawawi Imron, representatives from the Regional Leadership Communication Forum (Forkopimda) of Sumenep, and leaders from other universities across Madura, underscoring the widespread significance and support for UNIJA’s mission.