EduAsiaNews, Makassar – Entering university marks not only a transition to a higher level of education but also a psychological milestone that shapes students’ identity and sense of belonging within the academic community. Numerous higher education studies have shown that positive experiences during the early stages of university life contribute to students’ learning motivation, institutional engagement, and ability to adapt throughout their academic journey.
To welcome incoming students, Hasanuddin University (UNHAS) is providing alma mater jackets free of charge as part of its orientation program. Now in its second year, the initiative has been enhanced with a personal touch through a welcome card signed by the Rector of UNHAS, Prof. Dr. Ir. Jamaluddin Jompa, M.Sc.
A total of 6,970 alma mater jackets have been prepared for students admitted through the National Selection Based on Test (SNBT) and the Independent Admission Pathway, following the first-phase distribution to students accepted through the National Selection Based on Achievement (SNBP).
Inside each jacket package, students receive a welcome card expressing appreciation for successfully passing the highly competitive admission process and encouraging them to begin their academic journey with enthusiasm for learning. Through the message, the Rector invites new students to become resilient learners and grow into outstanding future leaders during their studies at UNHAS.
For Syarifah Nurazizah, a student in the Animal Science Study Program, receiving the alma mater jacket was a memorable experience. She said the university’s iconic symbol instilled a sense of pride while reinforcing her feeling of being welcomed into the UNHAS academic community.
“I feel very happy, proud, and grateful to be part of Hasanuddin University. This alma mater jacket is a symbol of pride and my identity as a UNHAS student,” she said.
Syarifah added that discovering the Rector’s welcome card inside the package made the experience even more meaningful. She described the message as a heartfelt welcome for new students, with the words, “Be a resilient learner and grow into an outstanding generation at Hasanuddin University, our beloved campus,” leaving the strongest impression on her.
She also praised the smooth distribution process.
“The service was excellent and well organized,” she remarked.
The Vice Rector for Academic and Student Affairs, Prof. Muhammad Ruslin, drg., M.Kes., Ph.D., Sp.B.M.Mf., Subsp.Ortognat.D., explained that students’ first experiences at university play a crucial role in fostering emotional attachment to the institution.
“New students are not only beginning their academic journey but are also becoming part of the Hasanuddin University family. Therefore, we want them to embark on this journey with a sense of pride, comfort, and belonging to their alma mater,” he said.
The alma mater jacket distribution is one of the student services coordinated by the Directorate of Student Affairs to support the adaptation of new students to university life. The distribution is conducted in stages according to each admission pathway to ensure that all students enjoy a consistent and meaningful welcome as they enter the academic environment.
The Director of Student Affairs, Prof. Dr. Ir. Suhasman, S.Hut., M.Si., IPM., emphasized that the significance of the alma mater jacket extends far beyond its function as official student attire.
“The alma mater jacket symbolizes identity and pride as a Hasanuddin University student. We hope this initiative provides new students with a positive first experience as they begin their journey at UNHAS,” he said.
The second phase of the alma mater jacket distribution has been taking place at the JK Arenatorium, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, since 1 August 2026 and continued through Thursday, 6 August 2026.
