ULM Inaugurates Prof. Dr. Arif Sholahuddin and Prof. Dr. Karunia Puji Hastuti as Professors

Banjarmasin – Lambung Mangkurat University (ULM) reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening academic quality and scientific development by inaugurating two professors from the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP). The inauguration took place in the Lecture Theater of the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB) at ULM on Tuesday (12/16/2025).

The two professors inaugurated were Prof. Dr. Arif Sholahuddin, S.Pd., M.Si., Professor of Chemistry Learning Strategies, and Prof. Dr. Karunia Puji Hastuti, S.Pd., M.Pd., Professor of Geography Learning Strategies. This activity is part of ULM’s efforts to strengthen the role of higher education as a center for scientific development and improving the quality of education.

In his scientific speech, Prof. Dr. Prof. Arif Sholahuddin’s speech, titled “Building a Literate Generation: Science Learning Strategies that Honor Students,” emphasized the importance of a science learning approach that is not solely focused on cognitive achievement but also respects the potential, character, and dignity of students as subjects of learning.

Meanwhile, Prof. Dr. Karunia Puji Hastuti delivered a scientific speech entitled “Geography in the Era of Artificial Intelligence: Learning Strategies to Build Geo-Literacy, Environmental Awareness, and Disaster Preparedness.” The speech highlighted the strategic role of geography learning in the era of artificial intelligence in developing spatial literacy, environmental awareness, and disaster preparedness among the younger generation.

In his remarks, the Rector of ULM, Prof. Dr. Ahmad, S.E., M.Si., expressed his appreciation and high hopes for the inauguration of the two professors. He stated that the addition of professors to ULM, particularly the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, is a source of motivation for the entire academic community to continue building a more progressive ULM.

“On behalf of the ULM academic community, I congratulate the two professors inaugurated today. We believe that these two additional professors will provide the greatest benefits to Lambung Mangkurat University,” said the Rector.

The Rector also emphasized that the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education is the largest faculty at ULM, with 21 undergraduate study programs, all of which have received excellent accreditation. With the addition of two professors, ULM is optimistic that FKIP will be even more prepared to strengthen its academic reputation internationally.

“Currently, nine study programs at FKIP are entering the international accreditation visitation stage. If all are successful, ULM will have a total of 17 internationally accredited study programs,” he added.

This inauguration marks a crucial moment for ULM in strengthening the capacity of its academic resources, encouraging learning innovation, and enhancing the university’s competitiveness at the national and global levels. Through the role of these professors, ULM remains committed to generating strategic ideas and making real contributions to the advancement of Indonesian education.