The Journey of Universitas Jember: From Vision to Reality since 1964

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Universitas Jember, an esteemed higher education institution in Indonesia, traces its roots back to the visionary aspirations of three key figures: Dr. R. Achmad, R. Th. Soengedi, and R. M. Soerachman. Their dream of establishing a university in Jember was set into motion on April 1, 1957, with the formation of the Triumviraat Committee, where Dr. R. Achmad served as Chairman, R. Th. Soengedi as Secretary, and R. M. Soerachman as Treasurer.

This committee laid the groundwork for the creation of a foundation named Yayasan Universitas Tawang Alun on October 5, 1957, officially recognized by notarial deed on March 8, 1958, under number 13 in Jember. The foundation established a private university named Universitas Tawang Alun, later abbreviated as UNITA.

Establishment and Growth of Universitas Jember

The efforts of these pioneers received substantial support from the then Regent of Jember, R. Soedjarwo. Their relentless dedication culminated in a significant milestone with the issuance of the Decree of the Minister of Higher Education and Science (PTIP) No. 151 of 1964 on November 9, 1964, officially establishing Universitas Negeri Djember (UNED).

The university commenced with five faculties: the Faculty of Law in Jember with a branch in Banyuwangi, the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, and the Faculty of Agriculture in Jember, as well as the Faculty of Economics and the Faculty of Literature in Banyuwangi. Dr. R. Achmad became the first rector, succeeded by a series of military leaders: Lt. Col. R. Winoto (1966-1967), Lt. Col. Soedi Harjohoedojo (1967-1969), Lt. Col. Soetardjo, SH (1969-1978), and Col. Drs. H. R. Warsito (1978-1986).

Transition to Academic Leadership

The leadership mantle of Universitas Jember shifted to its academic community in 1986, starting with Prof. Dr. Simanhadi Widyaprakosa (1986-1995), followed by Prof. Dr. Kabul Santoso, MS (1995-2003), Dr. Ir. T. Sutikto, MSc (2003-2011), Drs. Moh. Hasan, MSc Ph.D. (2012-2020), and currently, Dr. Ir. Iwan Taruna, M.Eng. (2020-present). This transition marked a significant phase in the university’s development, allowing it to harness the expertise and vision of its own academic leaders.

Vision and Mission

Universitas Jember aspires to be a leading university in the development of science, technology, and the arts, with a focus on environmental awareness, business, and industrial agriculture. This vision underscores the university’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.

The mission of Universitas Jember is multifaceted:

  1. To deliver and enhance quality academic, vocational, and professional education with a global reputation, focusing on environmental awareness, business, and industrial agriculture.
  2. To generate and develop science, technology, and the arts through creative, innovative, and valuable learning, research, and community service processes.
  3. To develop a transparent and accountable university management system based on information technology.
  4. To expand collaborative networks with stakeholders to enhance UNEJ’s capacity and capabilities.

Academic Faculties and Programs

Universitas Jember boasts a diverse range of faculties and programs, catering to a wide array of academic interests and professional aspirations. The faculties include:

  1. Faculty of Law
  2. Faculty of Dentistry
  3. Faculty of Pharmacy
  4. Faculty of Agriculture
  5. Faculty of Medicine
  6. Faculty of Agricultural Technology
  7. Faculty of Computer Science
  8. Faculty of Education
  9. Faculty of Social and Political Sciences
  10. Faculty of Economics and Business
  11. Faculty of Cultural Studies
  12. Faculty of Public Health
  13. Faculty of Engineering
  14. Faculty of Nursing
  15. Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences

In addition to these faculties, Universitas Jember offers postgraduate programs, vocational programs, and international programs, catering to the needs of both local and international students.

The history of Universitas Jember is a testament to the vision and perseverance of its founders and leaders. From its humble beginnings as a private university to its current status as a renowned public university, Universitas Jember has continually evolved to meet the educational needs of its students and the broader community.

With a strong vision and mission, it is well-positioned to continue its legacy of excellence in education, research, and community service, contributing significantly to the development of science, technology, and the arts on both a national and international scale.

 

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