Mataram, Indonesia – Demonstrating its unwavering commitment to developing globally competent educators rooted in Hindu values, IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram officially launched the 25th School Field Experience Program (PLP) for the 2026/2027 Academic Year through a comprehensive send-off and professional orientation hosted by the Faculty of Dharma Acarya on Friday, 7 August 2026, at the Rectorate Building. Under the inspiring theme, “Future Hindu Acarya: Firm in Dharma, Truth, and Making a Meaningful Impact,” the program marks another strategic step in the university’s mission to cultivate transformative educators prepared to lead with integrity, wisdom, and excellence.
The orientation brought together 35 student teachers from the Bachelor’s programs in Hindu Religious Education, Early Childhood Teacher Education (PG-PAUD), and Hindu Arts, Culture, and Religious Education. Joined by university executives, faculty leaders, and academic staff, the event underscored IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram’s holistic approach to teacher education, one that integrates academic rigor, ethical leadership, and community engagement to prepare graduates for the evolving landscape of eeducation In her keynote address, Prof. Dr. Siti Zaenab, S.Ag., M.Pd., CIQar., Dean of the Faculty of Dharma Acarya, reminded students that entering partner schools means carrying not only personal aspirations but also the identity and reputation of the university. She encouraged every participant to uphold professionalism, integrity, and respectful communication as the defining qualities of future educators.
“Every action reflects the quality of IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram graduates. Ethics and professionalism must always remain our highest priority,” she emphasized.
Representing the Rector, Dr. Joko Prayitno, S.Ag., S.T., M.Pd.H., Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, Institutional Affairs, and Partnerships, highlighted the importance of resilience and adaptability as students transition from community engagement through the Community Service Program (KKN) to the structured and disciplined environment of partner schools. He encouraged participants to embrace every challenge as an opportunity for professional growth and lifelong learning.
According to Dr. Joko, effective educators are distinguished not only by their pedagogical competence but also by their ability to adapt, collaborate, and inspire positive change within educational communities.
The orientation program featured expert-led sessions designed to strengthen both professional values and classroom readiness. Prof. Siti Zaenab delivered an insightful presentation on Professional Ethics for Student Teachers, emphasizing that pedagogical expertise must be inseparable from character, integrity, and moral responsibility.
Complementing this session, I Made Putra Suryantara, S.Pd., M.I.Kom., Chair of the Hindu Religious Teachers Association (MGMP) of West Nusa Tenggara Province, provided practical guidance on instructional planning, classroom management, and the development of effective learning materials aligned with diverse educational contexts and student needs. T
he program fostered an engaging learning environment through interactive discussions, collaborative exchanges, and reflective dialogue, allowing participants to gain valuable insights into the realities of contemporary teaching while strengthening their confidence as future professionals.
Through initiatives such as the PLP Orientation, IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram continues to reinforce its position as a leading institution for Hindu higher education in Indonesia. By integrating character formation, professional ethics, pedagogical excellence, and experiential learning, the university is nurturing a new generation of Hindu educators who are academically accomplished, culturally grounded, and equipped to make meaningful contributions to education at both the national and international levels.
As IAHN Gde Pudja Mataram advances its vision of academic excellence and institutional transformation, the university remains dedicated to producing future Acarya who embody the enduring values of Dharma and Satya while serving as innovative educational leaders capable of shaping a more inclusive, ethical, and sustainable future.
(by: DKS)
