The Faculty of Advanced Technology and Multidiscipline (FTMM) at Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) celebrated its fifth anniversary on May 7, 2025. The event took place at the Candradimuka Hall in the Nano Building on the MERR-C campus.
During the celebration, FTMM Dean Prof. Dwi Setyawan reflected on the faculty’s beginnings, highlighting its evolution from the School of Advanced and Multidisciplinary Technology (STMM), which was established on November 10, 2019. FTMM officially came into existence on May 1, 2020, following a dean’s decree, with its first cohort of students enrolling in August 2020.
Prof. Setyawan noted the contributions of the academic community, emphasizing the faculty’s achievements over the past five years, which include notable research collaborations and publications, as well as recognitions at both national and international levels.
Strategic Growth Initiatives and Challenges
As he approaches the conclusion of his tenure as dean, Prof. Setyawan discussed the faculty’s progress, identifying three main strategies that facilitated its development. The faculty faced considerable challenges during its launch amid the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it established an online presence through social media and the faculty’s website, enabling an initial enrollment of 100 students across five programs during its first year.
Another significant area of growth was effective budgeting and resource allocation, which ensured that the faculty maintained modern facilities necessary for a technology-oriented education. Furthermore, engaging students in promotional initiatives through a dedicated media studio has enhanced FTMM’s visibility.
The contributions of early faculty members were also recognized for their crucial role in shaping the institution. To cultivate a capable teaching staff, FTMM recruited leading educators from esteemed universities in Indonesia and abroad.
The investments made in infrastructure and faculty development have resulted in positive outcomes. FTMM students have received numerous accolades in various national and international competitions, including PIMNAS and the RoboCup Asia-Pacific, and have secured employment opportunities in countries such as Germany, Japan, Malaysia, and the United Kingdom.
Future Accreditation Goals
As his term approaches its end, Prof. Setyawan is focused on achieving independent accreditation for FTMM’s Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Engineering as well as Data Science and Technology programs. Previous evaluations by BAN-PT faced limitations due to a lack of graduates. With graduates now available, the faculty is positioned to pursue reaccreditation through LAM-INFOKOM, which aligns more closely with its academic offerings.
Prof. Setyawan aims to complete the accreditation process before his term concludes in 2025, enabling students to graduate under the new status. He views this achievement as both a reflection of his leadership and a foundational step for future advancements.
Original news source: Universitas Airlangga
