Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta once again reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the quality of education, human resource development, and national civilization through the inauguration of four new professors held at the UNY Auditorium. The inauguration ceremony marked an important milestone in reinforcing academic excellence and the university’s contribution to advancing science, education, and social development.

The four newly inaugurated professors are Iis Prasetyo, Rukiyati, Sekar Purbarini Kawuryan, and Kastam Syamsi. Each professor delivered an inaugural speech reflecting their expertise and contributions to educational development and the strengthening of future human resources.

In his remarks, the Rector of UNY, Prof. Sumaryanto, emphasized that the inauguration of professors is not merely an academic achievement but also a strategic momentum to strengthen the university’s role in responding to future challenges.

“The inauguration of professors is a strategic force to strengthen innovation, humanistic education, and the development of superior human resources,” he stated.

Professor Iis Prasetyo highlighted the importance of strengthening lifelong learning through nonformal education systems capable of adapting to social and technological changes. According to him, inclusive and sustainable education is essential in preparing adaptive human resources for the future.

Meanwhile, Professor Rukiyati emphasized the importance of humanistic education grounded in values, ethics, and character building. She stressed that education should not only prioritize cognitive achievement but also nurture humanity, morality, and empathy among learners.

Professor Sekar Purbarini Kawuryan discussed the strategic role of elementary education in building a strong foundation for children’s literacy, character, and competencies from an early age. She emphasized the need for adaptive and innovative educational approaches in response to contemporary challenges.

On the other hand, Professor Kastam Syamsi highlighted the role of Indonesian language education in shaping critical, literate, and culturally rooted citizens. He underscored that language mastery is a key element in strengthening national identity and communication skills in the global era.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by university leaders, academics, professors, invited guests, and members of the wider academic community. The event reflected UNY’s commitment to continuously increasing the number and quality of professors as key drivers of educational transformation and scientific advancement.

Through the inauguration of these four professors, UNY aims to further strengthen its role as a higher education institution that promotes humanistic education, innovation, and the development of globally competitive human resources while remaining rooted in national values.

This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).