EduAsiaNews, Riau — Universitas Riau (Unri) has once again achieved national recognition in public relations. At the 8th Indonesian Public Relations Awards (AHI) 2026, Unri won five awards for various public relations programs and communication channels developed to promote information transparency, strengthen the university’s reputation and improve communication with the public.
Organized by Humas Indonesia, the prestigious event was held at Surakarta City Hall on Friday evening (Oct. 8, 2026). Carrying the theme “Building Policy Communication: Transparency, Public Understanding and Trust,” AHI 2026 recognized government institutions, universities and organizations across Indonesia for innovative, transparent public relations practices that address public needs.
At the event, Unri received awards in several categories: Gold in the Government Public Relations Program category, Bronze in the Most Innovative Public Information Service category, Bronze in the Social Media Digital Channel category, and Bronze in the Website Digital Channel category. In addition to these four awards, Unri also received the Most Popular Winner award in the Kartini Humas Indonesia category through its representative, Clara Yolandika, S.P., M.Si.
Unri Rector Prof. Sri Indarti, S.E., M.Si., said the achievements recognized the university’s commitment to strengthening public communication and building public trust. She emphasized that public relations plays a strategic role in communicating the university’s achievements, policies and programs openly and responsibly.
The AHI 2026 assessment involved a competitive evaluation process conducted by experts in communication and public relations, including public relations practitioners, academics, senior journalists and branding specialists. The judging process assessed various aspects, including communication strategies, innovation, content quality, digital channel utilization, public information services, and institutional efforts to build public trust and reputation.
Meanwhile, Unri Vice Rector for Planning, Cooperation and Information Systems Dr. Ir. Sofyan Husein Siregar, M.Phil., emphasized that strengthening public communication requires well-directed planning, the effective use of information technology and integrated management of digital channels.
For Unri, the five awards recognize its ongoing efforts to strengthen public relations as a strategic function in building the university’s image and reputation.
The development of public communication in the digital era requires universities not only to disseminate information but also to ensure that it is understandable, accessible, relevant and responsive to public needs.
(Nico, Photo: Nico)
