Weaving Dreams from the Island: PSDKU ULM Brings Campus to Remote Areas of Kotabaru
The sea breeze blew hard as a wooden ship left Tanjung Lalak Harbor, Kotabaru. On board, Muhammad Fathoni sat with the team from the Off-Campus Study Program (PSDKU) at Lambung Mangkurat University (ULM), carrying out a mission beyond administrative ones: to deliver information and the hope of higher education to the outermost islands.
The journey to Kerayaan Island was no ordinary one. As the ship entered open sea waters, the waves began to rise, the wind blew harder, and the wooden ship swayed to the rhythm of the waves.
“Earlier, one of our staff from Kotabaru said his family on the island warned him about strong winds at sea. But by then, we were already on the ship, so we continued on our journey,” said Fathoni, recalling the journey.
Despite the challenging conditions, the enthusiasm of the PSDKU ULM team remained steadfast. For them, this journey was part of the university’s commitment to providing inclusive and equitable higher education—a tangible manifestation of an impactful campus that reaches even the most remote areas.
A Beautiful Island, a Dream Awake
Upon arrival at Kerayaan Island, the fatigue of the journey was rewarded by the captivating natural panorama. The expansive blue sea, white sand fringing the coast, and the pristine island atmosphere greeted the team.
“Kerayaan Island is truly beautiful. The blue sea, white sand, and the atmosphere are still very natural. But behind that beauty, access to information about higher education is still limited,” said Fathoni.
On the island, the PSDKU ULM team visited SMA Negeri 2 Kerayaan Island to conduct a New Student Admissions Socialization and Promotion (PMB) activity for PSDKU ULM. Students and teachers enthusiastically welcomed the university team, who came directly from Banjarmasin, traveling by land and sea to provide information about opportunities to continue their studies at university.
PSDKU as a Bridge to Education
This socialization activity was part of a series of promotions for PSDKU ULM’s PMB for the 2026/2027 Academic Year, held from January 19–22, 2026, in Tanah Bumbu and Kotabaru Regencies. More than 20 schools were visited, including those in island regions like Sebuku Island and Kerayaan Island.
For Lambung Mangkurat University, PSDKU is not just an academic program, but a strategy to ensure equitable access to higher education. By directly visiting schools in island regions, ULM ensures that students in remote areas are not left behind in terms of information and opportunities.
“We want students on the islands to have the same big dreams as students in the city. PSDKU is here to bridge that gap,” said Fathoni.
A Campus with Impact from Coast to Island
The journey across the sea, facing strong winds, and arriving on a remote island symbolizes ULM’s commitment to carrying out its social role. The PSDKU team’s presence on Kerayaan Island not only brought brochures and presentations, but also a message that the university is there for all.
With the PSDKU program, Lambung Mangkurat University affirms its role as an impactful campus—one that not only builds academic spaces but also transcends geographical boundaries to provide fair and equitable educational opportunities.
Under the blue skies of Kerayaan Island, amidst the white sands and rolling waves, new dreams are being woven. Dreams of college, the future, and change—all of which now feel closer, thanks to the long journey of a wooden ship and the commitment of a university.
