Semarang (08/14) – Higher education plays a central role in shaping the character and skills of students. Understanding the values of character and adapting to campus life is crucial for new students at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) of Universitas Diponegoro (Undip). Therefore, the New Student Orientation Program (PKKMB) and character education (Pendikar) have been integrated to create students of strong character. On August 14, 2023, the PKKMB and Pendikar of FISIP Undip for the academic year 2023/2024 officially began at FISIP Undip Tembalang Campus.

The opening ceremony was attended by various important figures, including the Vice Rector for Communication and Business, Prof Budi Setiyono, S.Sos., M. Pol. Admin., Ph.D., Dean of FISIP Undip, Prof. Dr. Drs. Hardi Warsono, M.T., Vice Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Drs. Teguh Yuwono, M.Pol.Admin., Vice Dean for Resources, 3. Ika Riswanti Putranti, S.H.M.H.Ph.D., Chair of the Faculty Senate, 4. Prof. Dr. Dra. Naili Farida, M.Si., all Heads of Departments and Study Programs within FISIP Undip, Professors, Managers and Supervisors, as well as lecturers and staff within FISIP Undip.

The event began with the singing of the Indonesian national anthem, “Indonesia Raya,” and Mars Universitas Diponegoro. It was continued with a welcoming speech by the Vice Dean of FISIP Undip, Dr. Teguh Yuwono M.Pol.Admin. In his address, he provided a report on PKKMB and Character Education and officially welcomed the new students. Structural officials from the Faculty, Departments, and Study Programs were also introduced to the participants.

In his address, the Dean of FISIP Undip reminded the new students to respect their seniors who assisted in organizing the PKKMB and Pendikar programs. He also wished for the smooth progress of the academic year 2023/2024 for the new students. The PKKMB activities will take place for two days and will be followed by the Pendikar activities for three days. The opening ceremony was attended by approximately 1130 new undergraduate students and concluded with the release of balloons and doves, symbolizing the commencement of a series of events of the New Student Orientation Program and Character Education of FISIP Undip.

By combining the campus orientation for new students with character education, FISIP Undip aims for the new students to overcome academic challenges and navigate campus life effectively. Through this integration, it is hoped that students will grow into individuals of quality with strong character. This activity represents a long-term investment aimed at producing graduates who are not only academically adept but also ethical, capable of making positive contributions to society and the nation.