The Faculty of Economics and Business at Universitas Gadjah Mada (FEB UGM) continues to improve the quality of education in the FEB UGM Doctoral Program. This commitment is demonstrated, among other things, through the collection of feedback from graduate users or alums via a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) on the Implementation of Competency Assessment and Curriculum Evaluation held on Friday (April 17, 2026). This forum was attended by the Dean, Vice Deans, Department Chairs and Secretaries, as well as Program Directors from all doctoral programs at FEB UGM as a manifestation of a shared commitment to strengthening graduate quality.
The Dean of FEB UGM, Prof. Dr. Didi Achjari, S.E., M.Com., Ak., CA., stated that the forum aimed to gather feedback from alumni employers openly. This feedback is expected to serve as a constructive evaluation tool to assess the extent to which the competencies outlined in the curriculum have been achieved.
“The feedback provided will serve as evaluation material for the FEB UGM Doctoral Programs. If there are areas that need improvement, these will certainly be addressed in future enhancements,” he said.
The Head of the Quality Assurance and Accreditation Unit (UPMA) at the Faculty of Economics and Business, UGM, Aprilia Beta Suandi, S.E., M.Ec., Ph.D., explained that this activity is part of assurance of learning (AoL), which is the process of measuring alumni competency outcomes that will serve as the basis for continuous curriculum improvement.
“The competency targets focused on in this FGD session are scholarly thinking and communication. In the academic and research context, these competencies encompass graduates’ ability to think critically and communicate ideas clearly and coherently, both in writing and orally. Additionally, this forum also explores the strengths of FEB UGM Doctoral Program alumni and gathers input for program development,” she explained.
Several FEB UGM alum users noted that alums possess strengths in academic integrity, analytical skills, and a strong methodological foundation. One of them is the Dean of the Faculty of Economics at Sanata Dharma University (USD), Dr. Lukas Purwoto, M.Si., CRP, who stated that FEB UGM alumni are capable of collaborating in the implementation of the university’s three pillars, such as developing academic programs, fostering research collaboration, and opening up research grant opportunities for faculty and students.
The Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Business at the University of Papua (UNIPA) in West Papua, Dr. Ir. Rully N. Wurarah, M.Si., added that UGM FEB alums demonstrate a high level of adaptability both in academic settings and off-campus. Meanwhile, the Dean of the Faculty of Business and Economics at the Islamic University of Indonesia (UII) in Yogyakarta, Prof. Johan Arifin, S.E., M.Si., Ph.D., CFrA, CertIPSAS., highlighted the contributions of UGM FEB alums in the development of outcome-based curricula and international standards, strategic planning, and the implementation of academic programs at the Islamic University of Indonesia (UII).
The discussion also addressed the need to enhance international collaboration and to integrate soft skills courses, such as scientific writing, presentation skills, and academic networking. These competencies are deemed in need of further strengthening so that graduates excel not only in substance but also in effectively communicating ideas on the global stage.
Another challenge highlighted was the relatively long duration of doctoral studies. Some participants proposed strategies to accelerate studies, such as providing publication mentoring from the outset, without compromising the quality of the dissertation. Additionally, the inconsistent availability of elective courses each semester was a concern, as it impacts students’ academic planning.
Rimawan Pradiptyo, S.E., M.Sc., Ph.D., as Chair of the Master of Science and Doctor of Economics Program, emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between alums and the program.
“The hope is that this positive relationship will continue through optimal support, the sharing of experiences, and collaboration in various academic and professional activities,” he said.
Furthermore, Prof. Mahfud Sholihin, S.E., M.Acc., Ph.D., Ak., CA., CPA (Aust.), as the Chair of the Master of Science and Doctor of Accounting Program, expressed his appreciation for the various inputs provided during the forum.
“We are very pleased with this forum. We will follow up on several matters, particularly those within the scope of the faculty and the program, such as curriculum improvements and academic strengthening at the department level,” he said.
Meanwhile, Widya Paramita, S.E., M.Sc., Ph.D., as the Head of the Master of Science and Doctor of Management Program, also opened the floor for further discussion regarding alumni experiences with their studies.
“We also want to explore further whether there is any feedback regarding the advising process or other issues that pose obstacles to graduation. This is very important for our evaluation,” she concluded.
Through this FGD, the Faculty of Economics and Business at UGM reaffirmed its commitment to continuous improvement in the management of its doctoral program by engaging various stakeholders. The hope is that graduates will not only excel academically but also make tangible contributions to society, the nation, and the advancement of knowledge.
Reportage by: Shofi Hawa Anjani
Editor: Kurnia Ekaptiningrum
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