The Graduate School of UNY (SPs UNY) continues to expand its collaboration network with universities across Indonesia. This time, SPs UNY partnered with the State Islamic University (UIN) AM Sangadji Ambon to strengthen the implementation of the Tridharma Perguruan Tinggi (Three Pillars of Higher Education). The collaboration was realized through a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) titled “Accelerating the Development of Excellent, Creative, and Innovative Human Resources with Global Competitiveness.”

The FGD was chaired by UIN AM Sangadji Rector, Dr. Abidin, accompanied by Deans, Vice Deans, faculty leaders, lecturers, education staff, and undergraduate and graduate students. Representing SPs UNY, the delegation was led by Director Prof. Dr. Siswantoyo, M.Kes., AIFO., along with Dr. Nur Kholis and several doctoral students of SPs UNY.

In his opening remarks, Rector Dr. Abidin—also known as a prominent figure in the Maluku Community Brotherhood—emphasized that UIN AM Sangadji is committed to enhancing the capacity of its human resources. According to him, high-quality human capital serves as an agent of change to accelerate institutional competitiveness. One of the university’s top priorities is to increase the percentage of faculty members holding doctoral degrees, which currently stands at only 25 percent.

This commitment was warmly welcomed by SPs UNY. Prof. Siswantoyo reaffirmed UNY’s support through a wide range of study programs, both in regular and distance learning (PJJ) modes. At present, SPs UNY offers 7 regular programs and 5 distance learning programs, including three doctoral programs—Educational Research and Evaluation (PEP), Technology and Vocational Education (PTK), and Educational Sciences (IP). For master’s distance learning, PEP and PTK programs are available.

Interestingly, the PJJ concept at SPs UNY is designed to be flexible, enabling participants to work while pursuing their studies. “You can work and study without leaving your job—attending classes from home while enjoying a cup of coffee,” said Prof. Siswantoyo, drawing warm responses from participants.

Dean of the Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training (FITK) at UIN, Dr. Siti Jumaeda, noted that this opportunity is highly relevant. With such a system, lecturers can continue fulfilling their teaching duties on campus while also advancing their studies. She immediately initiated internal coordination to map the faculty’s needs for further study, aiming to accelerate the increase in the number of doctoral degree holders.

The FGD atmosphere grew even more engaging when Prof. Siswantoyo asked participants who were interested in pursuing master’s and doctoral studies at SPs UNY. The participants’ enthusiasm was evident, as many raised their hands eagerly. They also received motivational encouragement on Growth Mindset and Redesign Thinking to support both personal and institutional transformation.

Beyond the UIN campus, the SPs UNY team also established research collaboration with the National Accreditation Board for Primary and Secondary Education (BAN PDM) in Maluku. The meeting was attended by BAN PDM Secretary, Ogi Sugiarto, along with Dr. Sisi, Ms. Dewi, and other board members. After a brief presentation on distance learning programs, BAN PDM expressed readiness to follow up by coordinating further discussions with school leaders, principals, and teachers across Maluku.

The partnership between SPs UNY and UIN AM Sangadji is expected to be a breakthrough in accelerating the Human Development Index (HDI) in Maluku. The synergy of these two institutions is believed to foster the emergence of excellent, creative, innovative, and globally competitive human resources.