University of Indonesia Upholds Academic Integrity, Golkar Secretary General Appreciates Objective Decision
The recent revision of Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia’s dissertation has sparked a wave of discussions and controversies within academic and political circles. However, the Secretary General of the Golkar Party, Muhammad Sarmuji, commends the University of Indonesia (UI) for maintaining objectivity throughout the process.
Acknowledging the inherent challenges in addressing such issues, Sarmuji emphasizes the significance of UI’s commitment to scientific principles despite the political undertones surrounding Lahadalia’s dissertation. Speaking at the Parliamentary Complex in Senayan, Jakarta, on Friday, he expressed relief that UI did not succumb to external pressures and upheld academic standards.
A Matter of Routine Academic Review
Sarmuji believes that Lahadalia’s dissertation, as with any academic work, is subject to scrutiny and potential flaws that require rectification. He notes that the decision made by UI is a common practice within the academic realm, emphasizing that academic works often undergo revisions to enhance their quality.
Highlighting the universality of the situation, Sarmuji draws parallels between Lahadalia’s dissertation and other scholarly works, suggesting that UI’s decision is grounded in standard academic procedures. He stresses the importance of recognizing and addressing weaknesses in academic works, advocating for a constructive approach to improvement.
UI’s Collective Decision-Making Process
Explaining the decision-making process at UI, Sarmuji underscores the collaborative effort involving various university organs. He applauds the university for conducting meetings that engage multiple stakeholders, including the Council of Professors, the Board of Trustees, the Academic Senate, and the Rectorate, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive decision-making process.
By involving multiple perspectives and safeguarding against external influences, UI’s decision-making mechanism reflects a commitment to objectivity and academic integrity. Sarmuji lauds the university’s resilience in upholding these values amidst external pressures and emphasizes the importance of maintaining academic rigor and independence.
Reprimand for Minister Lahadalia
In response to the dissertation revision, the University of Indonesia has imposed disciplinary measures on Minister Bahlil Lahadalia, who is also a doctoral student at the School of Strategic and Global Studies (SKSG) at UI. The university’s rector, Heri Hermansyah, announced that Lahadalia would undergo a mentoring program as part of the disciplinary action.
The sanction, which was agreed upon by the Council of Professors, the Board of Trustees, the Academic Senate, and the Rectorate, underscores UI’s commitment to upholding academic standards and ensuring accountability among its students and faculty members. The decision reflects the university’s dedication to fostering a culture of academic excellence and integrity.
In conclusion, the recent events surrounding Minister Bahlil Lahadalia’s dissertation revision have shed light on the complexities of academic scrutiny and integrity. While sparking debates and controversies, UI’s unwavering commitment to objectivity and academic rigor stands as a testament to its dedication to upholding scholarly standards. As academic institutions navigate the intersection of politics and academia, the case of Lahadalia’s dissertation serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining integrity and transparency in scholarly pursuits.
