UMS Inaugurates SDGs Center to Achieve Sustainable Development Goals

Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) organized a Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Talkshow and the Inauguration of the UMS SDGs Center with the theme “Working Together Towards Sustainable Development in Solo Raya.” The event took place in the 7th Floor Seminar Room of the Siti Walidah Building at UMS.

The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including:

Prof. Ihwan Susila, S.E., M.Si., Ph.D. - Vice Rector III for Student Affairs and Alumni of UMS

Prof. Supriyono, S.T., M.T., Ph.D. - Vice Rector V for Cooperation and International Affairs of UMS

Prof. Dr. Bambang Setiaji, M.Si. - Chairman of the Research and Development Council of Central Board of Muhammadiyah

Prof. Dr. Ignasius Dwi Atmana Sutapa, M.Sc. - Vice Chairman of UNESCO-IHP IX on EH and Water Quality

Their presence added significant value to the event and highlighted the importance of sustainable development initiatives.

“In principle, I appreciate UMS for becoming one of the connectors of the SDGs Center University network. Of the more than 4,000 universities, only 47 campuses focus on the SDGs program. This means that only 1% of Indonesia has implemented it. This is a very good start,” he explained on Thursday (3/21/2024).

Sutapa emphasized that similar initiatives need to be undertaken by universities that have the potential to contribute to the success of the 17 SDGs programs. These steps must be carried out collaboratively with various sectors and stakeholders.

“UMS can be an important part that can positively impact the situation because the 17 SDGs targets are a compilation of all problems in the world. So that our research, service, and teaching will be interconnected,” explained the Core Member of the UNESCO EH Scientific Advisory Committee.

After the inauguration, he emphasized identifying, classifying, and capitalizing on all activities contributing to the SDGs. This data collection will help guide more meaningful and impactful initiatives.

Sutapa envisions this program becoming a pilot model, making significant contributions to the Greater Solo community and empowering other communities.

“Once again, I appreciate UMS’s steps; hopefully, it can be useful for all,” he said.

The event proceeded with the inauguration of the UMS SDGs Center and the initiation of SDGs cooperation among State Universities (PTN) and Private Universities (PTS) in Solo Raya. This significant activity was also witnessed by Prof. Bambang Setiaji, Chairman of the Education and Research Council of the Muhammadiyah Central Board.

During the same event, the Vice Rector for Cooperation and International Affairs stressed UMS’s commitment to actively participating in the realization of the 17 goals of the sustainable program.

“The role of universities is pivotal in achieving the SDGs program. It’s never too late to realize the 17 SDGs Programs,” he emphasized.

Writer: Fika

Editor: Gede

Translator: Rizal

Source: News UMS