Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta officially inaugurated five new professors in a formal ceremony held in the Main Meeting Room of the Rectorate.

The inauguration is expected to strengthen the university’s contribution in the fields of science, education, and technology, as well as act as a driver of innovation to answer the challenges of our times.

The five professors come from various faculties with diverse expertise: the Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Faculty of Economics and Business, and the Faculty of Vocational Studies. They are: Prof. Dr. phil. Ir. Didik Hariyanto, M.T., Prof. Dr. Ir. Sutopo, M.T., Prof. Dr. Miftahuddin, M.Hum., Prof. Dr. Ali Muhson, M.Pd., and Prof. Dr. Ir. Heri Wibowo, M.T.

Prof. Didik Hariyanto’s main idea focused on “Immersive Learning Technology in Electrical Engineering Education”. He outlined how technologies like Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) can bridge the gap between theory and practice in technical education. More than a pedagogic innovation, this also contributes directly to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially regarding quality education and industrial strengthening.

Prof. Sutopo addressed “Challenges and Strategies for Vocational Mechanical Engineering Education in the Digital Transformation Era”. He proposed an innovative model “Peer-Project-Based Learning” integrated with artificial intelligence, designed to produce graduates who are not only technically skilled but adaptive, collaborative, and innovative—highly relevant to today’s smart industry.

Prof. Miftahuddin discussed “Cultural Politics of the Spread of Islam Rahmatan Lil ‘Alamin in the 13th-17th Century in Indonesia”. He explained that the spread of Islam in the archipelago took a peaceful and cultural approach, which produced a tolerant, inclusive form of Islam — this historical legacy serves as a strong foundation for inter‐religious harmony and national unity.

Prof. Ali Muhson emphasised the importance of “Authentic Assessment in Economics Education”. He argued that traditional assessments often measure only memorisation rather than real‐life skills: through authentic assessment, students are encouraged to think critically and solve real problems, thereby making education more meaningful and preparing generations for global challenges.

Prof. Heri Wibowo presented the crucial role of “Welded Metallurgy Engineering to Meet Manufacturing Industry Challenges”. He explained various innovations in welding technology aimed at reducing distortion, reducing residual stress, increasing production efficiency. One concrete research result mentioned was a prototype aluminium bicycle frame developed with small and medium industries. Expertise in welding metallurgy becomes key to improving strategic industry competitiveness such as transport, maritime, and heavy equipment.

With the inauguration of these five new professors, UNY hopes to further strengthen its contribution in science, education and technology. Their presence is expected to act as the driving engine of innovation capable of expanding the knowledge base and providing real solutions to the various challenges faced by society, the nation, and the industrial world.