Author name: Ghina Nafsiya

Thurfah Mahira Ahnaf Universitas Padjadjaran has once again recorded a proud achievement on the international stage. In the QS World University Rankings (WUR) by Subject 2025 released on Thursday (March 6), six academic fields from Unpad successfully entered the global ranking list. One of the newest achievements comes from the field of English Language and Literature, which for the first time made it into the 301–350 band worldwide. This milestone marks an important achievement for the English Studies Program at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Padjadjaran, which has consistently strived to improve the quality of academics, research, and the relevance of its graduates in the workforce. Reaching the 301–350 band represents a significant improvement compared to previous years, placing Unpad’s English Studies Program alongside a number of internationally renowned universities, such as the University of California at Riverside, Florida State University, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, the University of Surrey, and the University of Wollongong. The ranking is determined by several indicators, including academic reputation and graduate employability. For Unpad’s English Studies Program, this result highlights that there is still room to further improve academic reputation, even though the employability and career prospects of its graduates are already strong and diverse. This aligns with the track record of the English Studies Program at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, which is known as the most sought-after program in the faculty, thus fulfilling the goals of SDG 4.3. The program produces graduates who are absorbed into a wide range of sectors, both in government and the private sector. This is made possible by the interdisciplinary competencies provided to students, including critical reading, discourse analysis, semiotics, cultural studies, and the use of modern technologies. The curriculum is designed to strengthen students’ adaptability to global situations while also nurturing their contributions to society, in line with SDG targets 4.4 and 4.7. The English Studies Program at Unpad is closely aligned with SDG 4 on Quality Education. The curriculum emphasizes the enhancement of literacy, critical, and creative skills, while also providing access to interdisciplinary education relevant to global demands. Unpad’s English Studies Program also plays an important role in producing highly competitive graduates who are not only capable of personal development but are also committed to contributing to society. The inclusion of English Studies Program at Unpad in the global ranking demonstrates that the program is able to compete internationally. Nevertheless, there remains a need to further enhance academic reputation through high-quality research publications and stronger global networking, in order to make a meaningful contribution to sustainable development, particularly in the field of quality education.

Jatinangor, 6 September 2025 — The Indonesian Studies Program at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB), Universitas Padjadjaran, has launched a laptop lending program called “Laptop Bersama.” Through a laptop donation system from lecturers and alumni, this program aims to support students in hybrid learning. Nani Darmayanti, the chair of the Indonesian Studies Program who has been running it for eight years, said that the program continues because it is based on a donation system. “Faculty members who have laptops that are no longer used at home donate them to the program,” she said. Students can then borrow these laptops, especially those who are working on their theses. After the students have finished using them, the laptops are returned to the study program and loaned to the next student. This activity, which supports hybrid learning, has been going on for more than eight years and was initiated by lecturers in the Indonesian Studies Program. However, it is not only lecturers from the Indonesian Studies Program who contribute to this program, but also alumni of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences and lecturers from other faculties who donate their laptops. To date, dozens of laptops have been donated by contributors and distributed to students. The effectiveness of this program is also demonstrated by the number of students who borrow laptops, which is around 5-10 students each year. This program is also linked to the “Dompet Bersama” program. Not only are they assisted in terms of hybrid learning, KIPK students who borrow laptops can also borrow funds of up to Rp500,000 during their studies. These funds are then repaid when their scholarships are disbursed.  Through the “Laptop Bersama” and “Dompet Bersama” programs, Nani hopes that “more people will donate in the future so that FIB can help students who need financial assistance and support facilities.” With these hybrid facilities in place, FIB will continue to develop its programs creatively and collaboratively. They have a specific goal behind their series of activities and programs, which is to support all the needs of students from various backgrounds. Red. Jauza Maryam Mumtazah

Aliyah Zahra Saffanah Students are not only required to understand theory, but also to have practical skills that can be applied in real life. This is the basis for the introduction of Entrepreneurship and Tourism courses at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Padjadjaran University. These two courses provide students with the opportunity to improve their critical thinking skills, recognize the potential around them, and train themselves to be better prepared to face the challenges of the world of work and economic opportunities in the future. In the Entrepreneurship course, students are introduced to various basic concepts about the business world. They learn to understand the definition and principles of entrepreneurship, the important role of entrepreneurs, and how an idea can develop into a valuable business. The lessons also include skills for identifying opportunities, concepts and differences in leadership types, marketing plans and business plans, branding, and much more. Moreover, students are introduced to technopreneurship, which is the use of technology in building modern businesses. This is important because the business world is now increasingly closely linked to developments in digital technology. With this knowledge, students not only prepare themselves to enter the workforce, but are also equipped with the courage to become creators of new jobs. The learning process in this class builds confidence, independence, and decision-making skills, which are important aspects of entrepreneurship. On the other hand, the Tourism course provides a learning experience that broadens students’ knowledge of one of the strategic economic sectors. The lessons learned include the history and development of tourism, types of tourism, and destination management strategies. Students are also encouraged to understand how tourism plays a role in economic development while preserving cultural and environmental sustainability. This course gives students a comprehensive understanding of tourism, from basic concepts and history to destination development strategies. The course also discusses aspects of tour guiding, giving students an idea of how the tourism industry should be run. From these discussions, they learn to see tourism not only as a recreational activity, but also as a means of introducing cultural identity while supporting community welfare. The learning methods in both courses focus on class discussions, literature studies, and assignments that encourage students to think critically. The evaluation is not only based on final exams, but also includes participation, group presentations, and written assignments that require a deep understanding of the lessons. With this approach, students are taught not only to accept theories, but also to process and relate them to real situations in society. The courses in Entrepreneurship and Tourism show how lectures can be a way to connect knowledge with practical needs. Through Entrepreneurship, students learn how an idea can be developed into a realistic business plan. Through Tourism, they understand how cultural and tourism potential can drive economic growth while strengthening community identity. Ultimately, these two courses equip students with essential skills to navigate the professional world, whether as job seekers or as creators of new opportunities that benefit many people.

Jatinangor, September 3rd 2025— For many students and staff, the daily commute between Bandung and Jatinangor can feel like a journey of its own. Universitas Padjadjaran helps make this journey smoother by offering reliable and affordable transportation options that connect campuses and communities—while staying true to its vision of sustainability. The Metro Jabar Trans bus has become a trusted companion for those traveling between Unpad Dipatiukur in Bandung and Unpad Jatinangor in Sumedang. Operating from 4:30 AM to 20:10 PM, this service ensures that no matter how early or late your schedule is, there’s always a safe and comfortable ride available. The ticket prices are designed to be accessible for all. A standard one-way fare costs IDR 4,900, while students and senior citizens (60+) who have registered their data can enjoy a special fare of just IDR 2,000, helping them save on daily commuting costs. By offering affordable fares, this initiative not only eases the financial burden of commuting but also encourages the use of public transportation over private vehicles—helping to reduce traffic congestion and emissions. In addition to Metro Jabar Trans, the Damri Bus serves the Elang-Jatinangor route, giving students and staff more choices for eco-friendly transportation to campus. Even within the campus environment, Unpad provides Odong-odong, a free shuttle service that helps students and staff move easily from one faculty to another. This reflects Unpad’s ongoing commitment to accessibility and the well-being of its academic community.  These transportation services offer more than convenience; they are part of a broader effort to promote sustainable mobility and affordable energy access. Through these initiatives, Unpad not only provides practical solutions for its community but also contributes to a cleaner, greener future—one ride at a time. Jatinangor, September 3rd 2025— For many students and staff, the daily commute between Bandung and Jatinangor can feel like a journey of its own. Universitas Padjadjaran helps make this journey smoother by offering reliable and affordable transportation options that connect campuses and communities—while staying true to its vision of sustainability. The Metro Jabar Trans bus has become a trusted companion for those traveling between Unpad Dipatiukur in Bandung and Unpad Jatinangor in Sumedang. Operating from 4:30 AM to 20:10 PM, this service ensures that no matter how early or late your schedule is, there’s always a safe and comfortable ride available. The ticket prices are designed to be accessible for all. A standard one-way fare costs IDR 4,900, while students and senior citizens (60+) who have registered their data can enjoy a special fare of just IDR 2,000, helping them save on daily commuting costs. By offering affordable fares, this initiative not only eases the financial burden of commuting but also encourages the use of public transportation over private vehicles—helping to reduce traffic congestion and emissions. In addition to Metro Jabar Trans, the Damri Bus serves the Elang-Jatinangor route, giving students and staff more choices for eco-friendly transportation to campus. Even within the campus environment, Unpad provides Odong-odong, a free shuttle service that helps students and staff move easily from one faculty to another. This reflects Unpad’s ongoing commitment to accessibility and the well-being of its academic community.  These transportation services offer more than convenience; they are part of a broader effort to promote sustainable mobility and affordable energy access. Through these initiatives, Unpad not only provides practical solutions for its community but also contributes to a cleaner, greener future—one ride at a time. By Dilla Maharani Putri

Jatinangor, September 3rd 2025 — Over the past three years, the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) at Universitas Padjadjaran has hosted over 60 guest lectures and lecture series featuring international lecturers, researchers, and professionals from around the world. These sessions have become an invaluable platform for students and staff to engage with diverse perspectives, explore new ideas, and stay connected to global academic conversations. Covering topics ranging from literature, linguistics, and cultural studies to history and contemporary global issues, each lecture provides participants the opportunities to broaden their knowledge while sharpening critical thinking skills and deepening cross-cultural understanding. By making these lectures accessible not only to students but also to the wider community, FIB Unpad fosters an inclusive learning environment that bridges cultures and disciplines. The collaboration with global experts and partner institutions ensure participants gain access to world-class insights—without ever leaving campus. Beyond bringing world-class expertise to Jatinangor, FIB Unpad also consistently welcomes exchange students from around the globe. These students immerse themselves in Indonesian studies, focusing on Sundanese culture and the Indonesian language. At the same time, FIB Unpad empowers its local students to study abroad at partner universities, encouraging them to gain global perspectives and develop a truly international mindset. This consistent effort reflects FIB Unpad’s dedication and commitment to creating a vibrant academic atmosphere where learning goes beyond the classroom, inspiring students to embrace lifelong learning and global engagement. By Dilla Maharani Putri

Jatinangor, September 2nd, 2025 — In Desa Hegarmanah, Jatinangor, a group of Universitas Padjadjaran students spent the semester working side by side with local residents on something very down-to-earth: keeping water clean and homes healthy. The program, run with the village office and community leaders, focused on everyday habits that make a real difference for SDG 6—Clean Water and Sanitation.  The team met regularly with market vendors and families to talk about safe water use, waste disposal, and food-handling hygiene. “Most people already pay attention to what they cook and sell,” one student said, “but we talked about where the water comes from, how to keep it from getting contaminated, and small routines like washing hands at key times, that help stop disease.”  Workshops were practical and hands-on. Together with residents, the students showed how to separate greywater from drinking water, set up simple household filters, and organize neighborhood clean-up days to keep drains clear. Village leaders mapped out problem spots where trash and stagnant water collect, and the group drew up a maintenance schedule the community can keep going after the project wraps up.  An October follow-up will check how the changes are working and adjust the plan if needed. The students are also turning their field notes into a journal article so other villages can learn from Hegarmanah’s experience.  By linking local values of cleanliness with straightforward sanitation steps, the project proves that cleaner water and healthier surroundings don’t have to be complicated but just take shared effort and a bit of guidance. By Dhia Anaulva PutriFakultas Ilmu Budaya

Aliyah Zahra Saffanah At the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Padjadjaran University, the Cultural Studies course is one of the learning spaces that raise students’ awareness of social issues around them. Through this course, students are introduced to various important concepts such as identity, representation, and power relations, which are then linked to the realities of everyday life. This approach emphasizes that culture is not merely a matter of tradition or art, but also an arena where values, ideologies, and the positions of individuals and groups are negotiated. One of the main focuses of this course is the discussion of identity, including how gender is formed and understood in society. Students are encouraged to look further into how women and other groups are represented in the media, cultural texts, and social practices. Through this study, they learn to recognize biases, stereotypes, and forms of injustice that are often present unconsciously. Furthermore, students are also involved in the analysis of popular culture. For example, the phenomenon of the hijabers community shows how women build new identities through lifestyle and social media. Or the movie Black Panther, which opens a discussion on how minority groups and female characters are presented in global stories. From this kind of study, students can see how culture can be a means of empowerment as well as a limitation for women. More than just academic understanding, this learning experience provides students with important tools to be more critical of equality issues. They not only learn how gender is constructed, but also how this knowledge can help them read social realities more sharply. This kind of awareness encourages students to realize the importance of a fair and equal space for everyone. Therefore, Cultural Studies not only enriches students’ knowledge of cultural theory and practice, but also raises their sensitivity to gender issues that are still relevant today. Through this course, students learn that equality is not an abstract discourse, but a real part of life that must continue to be fought for.

Aliyah Zahra Saffanah In mid-2025, the Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB) at Padjadjaran University held a community service activity in the form of tailor training. This program was aimed at residents of Cikeruh Village, Jatinangor District, and successfully attracted 15 participants, mostly women, who wanted to learn new skills and open up opportunities to increase their income. The training began on April 20, 2025, and was held regularly every Sunday from June to July 13, 2025. During the activity, participants received direct guidance from two experienced instructors, Mrs. Reni Taviriani and Mr. Iwan Purnawan. They not only taught the basics of sewing, such as recognizing tools, how to use machines, and making simple patterns, but also assisted participants in producing ready-to-wear products. For the women who participated, this activity provided dual benefits. On one side, they acquired practical technical skills that could be used immediately. On the other side, sewing training opened up opportunities for greater independence, both economically and socially. With these skills, participants could try to start small businesses, sell handmade products, or simply help meet their own families’ needs. Some participants are still very young and are not yet able to use needles or sewing machines. For them, embroidery courses are provided as a safer alternative. Towards the end of the activity, on July 13, 2025, the best embroidery works will receive special prizes as a token of appreciation. Besides being a learning tool, the training also became a space for social interaction. Participants were able to share stories, encourage each other, and build meaningful relationships outside of the training. This shared space fostered a sense of confidence that they were capable of developing their potential, regardless of their limitations. This simple initiative proves that women’s empowerment does not always have to be through large-scale programs. Through everyday skills such as sewing, women can gain new opportunities for development. This sewing training is a concrete example of how small steps can have a big impact in paving the way for independence, prosperity, and equality for women at the community level.

Jatinangor, September 2nd, 2025—In its commitment to improving the quality of education, the Faculty of Cultural Sciences at Universitas Padjadjaran requires students to take faculty-wide compulsory courses outside their own study programs. These courses cover a wide range of disciplines, including religion, civics, culture, philosophy, cultural diplomacy, tourism, entrepreneurship, and many more—each carefully designed with a detailed Rencana Pembelajaran Semester (RPS) or Semester Learning Plan to ensure effective delivery and absorption of knowledge. By offering this diverse curriculum, FIB demonstrates its dedication to fostering interdisciplinary understanding while enhancing educational quality. The courses are designed to equip students with not only academic and practical skills but also essential soft skills to thrive in various professional and global contexts. Each course is supported by a comprehensive and structured RPS, outlining clear learning outcomes, assessment methods, updated reference materials, and other key components. The presence of this framework underscores the faculty’s strong commitment to competency-based education and student-centered learning. FIB’s compulsory courses emphasize critical literacy, research skills, and cross-cultural understanding, reflecting the faculty’s dedication to providing students with accessible, high-quality education. The flexibility of the curriculum allows for a personalized and relevant learning experience, ensuring students can apply theoretical knowledge to real-world contexts. Through this approach, FIB Unpad aims to produce graduates who are well-prepared to contribute to the advancement of education and knowledge, both in Indonesia and on a global scale. Jatinangor, September 2nd, 2025—In its commitment to improving the quality of education, the Faculty of Cultural Sciences at Universitas Padjadjaran requires students to take faculty-wide compulsory courses outside their own study programs. These courses cover a wide range of disciplines, including religion, civics, culture, philosophy, cultural diplomacy, tourism, entrepreneurship, and many more—each carefully designed with a detailed Rencana Pembelajaran Semester (RPS) or Semester Learning Plan to ensure effective delivery and absorption of knowledge. By offering this diverse curriculum, FIB demonstrates its dedication to fostering interdisciplinary understanding while enhancing educational quality. The courses are designed to equip students with not only academic and practical skills but also essential soft skills to thrive in various professional and global contexts. Each course is supported by a comprehensive and structured RPS, outlining clear learning outcomes, assessment methods, updated reference materials, and other key components. The presence of this framework underscores the faculty’s strong commitment to competency-based education and student-centered learning. FIB’s compulsory courses emphasize critical literacy, research skills, and cross-cultural understanding, reflecting the faculty’s dedication to providing students with accessible, high-quality education. The flexibility of the curriculum allows for a personalized and relevant learning experience, ensuring students can apply theoretical knowledge to real-world contexts. Through this approach, FIB Unpad aims to produce graduates who are well-prepared to contribute to the advancement of education and knowledge, both in Indonesia and on a global scale. By Dilla Maharani Putri

This year, the Faculty of Cultural Science (FIB) in Universitas Padjadjaran has been provided with a learning environment that facilitates effective hybrid learning for its students and lecturers. In all areas, free WiFi and digital facilities are provided to ensure that both online and offline learning are compatible with productivity, comfort, and community.  When visitors first enter the Main Building of FIB, they can get a glimpse of desks and computers located near the stairs. Here, students who do not have access to their own laptops can use the computers to do their research or work on their assignments. While they work, they can also mingle with students and lecturers at the tables and sofas around the area. For refreshments, they can simply walk over a few steps to the faculty’s very own coffee shop, Poeta. All these facilities, of course, are provided with free WiFi and electric sockets in all tables and corners.  This year, students have also enjoyed working in the well-acquainted back verandah of the Main Building. This semi-outdoor area had once been a simple back garden of the building, but starting in 2023, the faculty has added lights and benches with electric sockets. Now, in 2025, with additional tables more equipped for laptops, students occasionally mingle around to do their group work, write their thesis, or even take a lunch break in between classes. The comfort of this area is also supported by the availability of Wi-Fi as well as multiple charging ports provided to all the benches, making it a perfect ground for both concentration and relaxation.  For students looking for even more quiet and focus, the faculty also provides a library and a student center. In the library, they are provided with individual desks where they can focus on writing their assignments or thesis in complete silence. Besides the books and resources that are available, students can also look through the thesis repository, where they can find past projects from alumni to use as reference material and inspiration for their ongoing research. If this is not enough, they can also visit the student center right next door, where they can find and read specific theoretical texts on linguistics, literature, culture, and/or history. Although these facilities have been met with positive comments, Dhia, a Cultural Studies Master’s student of FIB, said, “I think that the charging ports should be available more often because on some days, they might be turned off.” Having said this, this year, the faculty continues to improve its facilities, ensuring the best are given to its students. With an increasingly digital learning environment, the faculty hopes to not only adapt to changing needs but also effectively provide an inclusive and supportive atmosphere. Red. Jauza Maryam Mumtazah