EduAsiaNews, Depok — Universitas Indonesia (UI) welcomed approximately 500 new students from various regions across Indonesia who will reside at UI Dormitory during the 2026/2027 academic year. Through the Welcoming Program for New UI Dormitory Residents, held on Tuesday (August 18) at the UI Dormitory, Depok Campus, students were introduced to dormitory life and its various services while being encouraged to foster a spirit of togetherness, care, and personal development throughout their studies at UI.
The event was part of UI Dormitory’s efforts to create an environment that supports students’ well-being while serving as a space for students to grow, collaborate, and develop their potential. The program also featured the introduction of several collaborative initiatives between UI Dormitory and its partners.
In his remarks, UI Vice Rector for Infrastructure and Facilities, Prof. Agus Setiawan, S.Kp., M.N., D.N., noted that the new students residing in the dormitory came from various parts of Indonesia. He encouraged them to regard the dormitory as their home throughout their university years.
“In the classroom, you learn about academic matters, while in the dormitory, you can learn about life. Therefore, consider this dormitory your own home and take good care of it. Make the best possible use of the facilities provided by the Dormitory and UI,” said Prof. Agus.
Head of UI Dormitory, Mariyah, S.Sos., M.Hum., said that the Welcoming Program marked the beginning of a new phase in the lives of students as they pursue their education at UI. She explained that living away from family can evoke a range of emotions, from excitement to anxiety, as students adapt to a new environment.
“There will certainly be feelings of excitement, fear, and concern as you are away from your families and the homes where you have lived. UI Dormitory is here not merely as a place to stay, but also to accompany you through this important phase of your lives,” she said.
She added that the experience of living at UI Dormitory is expected not only to foster students’ independence but also to cultivate their sense of care and empathy toward the surrounding community.
“Living at UI Dormitory is not merely about having a place to stay. We hope that here you will grow into independent, caring individuals who can make a positive impact on others,” she added.
During the event, UI Dormitory also launched three collaborative programs designed to support students’ development during their stay. The programs include the “Healthy Dormitory, Healthy Students” Community Engagement Program, in collaboration with the Directorate of Community Engagement and Social Innovation at Universitas Indonesia (DPIS UI); the WEAVE Project, in partnership with Dreamdelion; and an Academic Development Program in collaboration with Tutoria.id.
The event continued with an inspirational talk show featuring several UI alumni: Strategic Advisor at Valupak, Rhadeya Setiawan; Dreamdelion CEO, Alia Noor Anovia; and Reacteev CEO, Ir. Muhammad Rasyid Ramadhani, M.T., IPP. The speakers shared their experiences and insights with the new students, emphasizing the importance of having the courage to explore fields beyond their academic backgrounds and making wise use of technological developments.
Through the Welcoming Program for New UI Dormitory Residents, UI reaffirmed its role as part of an educational ecosystem that not only provides accommodation for students from various regions but also creates a space for learning, networking, collaboration, and personal growth. With a supportive environment, UI Dormitory is expected to serve as a home where students can navigate their university life while preparing themselves to make a positive impact on society.
