On November 12, 2024, the educational staff from the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (FPK) at Universitas Airlangga, led by Mr. Agus Sutiyono, S.Sos., M.M., conducted a benchmarking visit to the Faculty of Agriculture (FAPERTA) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM). This visit aimed to uncover effective strategies for involving educational staff in study program promotions. The delegation was warmly welcomed by Mr. Agus Sudarwinto, S.E., M.M., Head of the Administration Office at UGM’s Faculty of Agriculture.
The visit included an in-depth discussion on FAPERTA UGM’s approach to developing sustainable promotion programs that involve various stakeholders. Mr. Agus Sudarwinto shared several key strategies implemented by FAPERTA UGM, specifically within the Department of Fisheries, to promote their study programs:
1. Alumni Collaboration for Promotion Outside Yogyakarta
FAPERTA UGM actively collaborates with KAGAMA (Universitas Gadjah Mada Alumni Family), particularly in study program promotion activities outside Yogyakarta. Alumni support extends promotional access and networks, creating opportunities for prospective students to receive firsthand information from trusted sources. UGM’s Public Relations (HUMAS) is also invited to provide keynote speakers in several activities.
2. Policy Guidance for Graduates to Continue Their Studies
To meet student quotas across various study programs, FAPERTA UGM has a policy that encourages bachelor’s graduates to pursue further studies within the same faculty. This policy not only strengthens the relationship between graduates and the faculty but also supports maintaining enrollment levels in the available programs.
3. Annual Education Exhibitions Outside Yogyakarta
Every year, FAPERTA UGM holds education exhibitions in various regions outside Yogyakarta. These exhibitions enable prospective students from different areas to access information about the Faculty of Agriculture’s study programs and facilities, opening doors for those interested in joining.
4. Welcoming School Visits for Study Program Information
The Department of Fisheries at FAPERTA UGM also receives visits from schools seeking information about the study programs offered. These visits foster direct interaction between prospective students and FAPERTA’s study programs, building a positive institutional image.
5. International Promotion Involving Educational Staff
FAPERTA UGM’s educational staff are also involved in promoting study programs abroad. This initiative strengthens UGM’s position as a global university, supporting the recognition of study programs internationally, expanding networks, and attracting international students.
6. Social Media Utilization for Promotion
Social media plays an active role in promoting the Department of Fisheries at FAPERTA UGM, with platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and more. These platforms reach a broader audience, sharing informative and visually appealing content tailored to the trends of younger generations.
This benchmarking visit provided new insights for FPK Unair’s educational staff regarding approaches they can implement to optimize their own study program promotions. It is hoped that collaborations like this can have a positive impact and create synergy among universities across Indonesia to build a stronger educational system.
