EduAsiaNews, Jatinangor – In support of the Indonesian Ministry of Transmigration’s development program, Universitas Padjadjaran (Unpad) has once again joined the Patriot Expedition 2026 by deploying 24 multidisciplinary teams to serve in five transmigration areas across Indonesia. The official send-off ceremony was held at the Balai Santika Auditorium, Unpad Jatinangor Campus, on Friday, July 24, 2026.
In his remarks, Prof. Rizky Abdulah, Vice Rector for Research, Cooperation, and Marketing, said that Unpad has once again been entrusted to contribute to the development of transmigration areas through the application of science, innovation, and community engagement. He noted that the university’s continued participation reflects the strong performance demonstrated during last year’s Patriot Expedition.
“Last year, Unpad contributed from the westernmost part of Indonesia in Aceh, to the easternmost region in Merauke, and as far south as Rote Island. Thanks to that strong performance, Unpad has once again been selected as one of the few universities invited to participate in the 2026 Patriot Expedition,” Prof. Rizky said.
He explained that one of the key challenges in transmigration areas is ensuring the long-term sustainability of local communities so they can continue to live and prosper in those regions. Therefore, participation in the Patriot Expedition goes beyond community service—it also represents Universitas Padjadjaran’s commitment to delivering innovations that address the real needs of local communities.
“The Patriot Expedition is not only about carrying out community service but also about representing Unpad in bringing scientific knowledge, innovation, and practical solutions so that the benefits of higher education can be felt more widely by society. Listen to the communities, build meaningful communication with residents and local governments, and then offer solutions that are relevant to their needs,” he said.
Meanwhile, Prof. Nur Atik, Director of Research, Downstream Innovation, and Community Service at Unpad, stated that the university is deploying 24 teams, each led by a faculty member and supported by a total of 120 student members. The teams will be assigned to five transmigration areas: 20 teams to Fakfak, West Papua; one team each to West Kotawaringin, Nibung Island, and Kapuas in Central Kalimantan; and one team to Lagita, North Bengkulu.
Prof. Nur Atik further explained that the Patriot Expedition 2026 addresses a range of strategic issues. Consequently, each team has been formed with a multidisciplinary composition to ensure comprehensive and context-specific solutions to challenges encountered in the field.
She encouraged all participants to carry out their assignments with sincerity while upholding the university’s reputation.
“We entrust all of you to perform your duties with dedication and sincerity because this is a service to Indonesia. Wherever you are assigned, uphold the good name of Universitas Padjadjaran and demonstrate that the Patriot Expedition truly brings meaningful benefits to the communities you serve,” she concluded.
