EduAsiaNews, Sumatra barat – Continues to strengthen its commitment to developing a generation of students who excel not only academically, but also possess strong character, integrity, and leadership qualities for the future. This commitment was demonstrated through the enhancement of the Andalasian Talent Academy program, held on Thursday (14 May) at the Library Building of Universitas Andalas.
The activity forms part of the implementation of the Grand Design for Student Self-Development and Career Development at UNAND, which has been designed as a comprehensive framework for sustainable student development.
The Director of Education and Learning at UNAND, Dr. Mahdhivan Syafwan, explained that the grand design has already received an official Rector’s Decree and is currently being prepared for formal launch to all students.
According to him, the student development concept was formulated based on UNAND’s vision of becoming a “distinguished and dignified” university. The concept of being distinguished is reflected through achievements, competencies, and mastery of knowledge, while dignity is built upon values, integrity, and strong faith.
He further stated that the direction of this student development initiative is aligned with UNAND’s goal of producing graduates who are globally competitive, entrepreneurial, and equipped with strong character in facing increasingly complex global challenges.
Previously, UNAND had introduced student character values through the Andalasian Character training program for new students. The Andalasian Talent Academy program serves as both a continuation and reinforcement of this process.
“Andalasian Talent Academy is designed as a strategic and sustainable development platform integrated with students’ personal and career development,” explained Dr. Mahdhivan Syafwan.
The program is also intended to prepare professional student mentors who possess integrity and strong character to support the strengthening of the Islamic Religion Compulsory Curriculum Course (MKWK) for the 2026/2027 Academic Year.
Furthermore, he expressed hope that the program would become a new breakthrough in fostering a culture of exemplary conduct within the campus environment. New students are expected to directly observe how senior students and facilitators embody the Andalasian character values that have long been promoted by the university.
Meanwhile, the Vice Rector I of UNAND, Prof. Syukri Arief, emphasized that the participants involved in the program were selected students who had successfully passed a rigorous selection process.
According to him, development initiatives such as this represent an important investment in producing future generations capable of making significant contributions to the nation.
“I hope that in the future, major national figures will emerge from Universitas Andalas. The history of West Sumatra demonstrates that many national leaders were shaped through strong educational and character-building processes,” he stated.
He also emphasized that students’ active involvement in discussions, training sessions, and self-development activities is an essential component in strengthening soft skills, which are increasingly important across various aspects of life today.
“Soft skills are becoming an essential strength in facing the increasingly complex challenges of the future. Make this opportunity a commitment to continue growing, not only for personal development, but also to create positive change for society,” he concluded.
