The Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada (SPs UGM) is currently focused on obtaining accreditation from the Foundation for International Business Administration Accreditation (FIBAA) for its Master Programs in Religion and Cross-Cultural Studies as well as Master Programs in Inter-Religious Studies. This process is a significant step in enhancing the quality of education at SPs UGM and evaluating the international positioning of these programs.
On June 13-14th 2024, both programs organized a joint workshop to fulfill the FIBAA accreditation requirements. This involved efforts to compile documents and prepare to meet the international standards set by FIBAA. This process not only helps address existing shortcomings but also enhances SPs UGM’s understanding of the requirements for structuring and managing the curriculum in accordance with Ministry of Education and Culture Regulation No. 53 of 2023 regarding Higher Education Quality Assurance.
“With the process of obtaining FIBAA accreditation, we have a valuable momentum to evaluate the performance of the programs and improve areas needing further enhancement,” said Linah K. Pary, the higher education data quality executive at SPs UGM.
The comprehensive evaluation conducted during this accreditation preparation has provided deep insights into areas that need improvement. Intensive discussions on curriculum mapping, program structure, credit allocation (SKS), conversion of SKS to ECTS (European Credit Transfer System), and learning development have been integral parts of this preparation.
The international accreditation process is not just about meeting administrative requirements but also an opportunity to strategically reform educational strategies overall. This includes integrating perspectives on cross-cultural and religious studies, which are the primary focuses of both programs. Thus, SPs UGM ensures that the offered curriculum remains relevant and responsive to global demands in the fields of religious and inter-religious studies.
IBAA accreditation is expected to provide international recognition for the quality of education provided by SPs UGM. It also opens opportunities to enhance collaborations with other international educational and research institutions, as well as to expand cooperation networks in the fields of religious and cross-cultural studies.
Due to global challenges, particularly in higher education, efforts to obtain international accreditation like FIBAA are strategic steps that support SPs UGM’s vision and mission to make significant contributions to the advancement of knowledge and global society.
Author: Archa
Editor: Linah K. Pary
Keywords: SDGs, SDG 4: Quality Education, Access to Education, Education for Sustainability, Continuous Improvement, Development Education