The newly established program admitted only eight students out of 831 applicants, exceeding expectations for a study program that was officially launched less than two years ago. The milestone reflects growing public interest in creative media education integrated with national values.
UPNVJ Rector Anter Venus stated that the program was strategically designed to produce professionals for the film and media industry through a comprehensive curriculum and adequate facilities. The program’s launch in September 2024 was attended by prominent figures, including filmmaker Riri Riza and comedian Andre Taulany.
One of the program’s distinguishing features is its integration of film and media studies with state defense values, aligning with UPNVJ’s institutional identity. According to Gerzon R. Ajawaila, Chairman of the Indonesian Association of Film and Television Study Programs, such positioning offers a unique differentiation among similar programs nationwide.
The academic framework was developed through collaboration with professional associations and industry practitioners. Tito Imanda from the Indonesian Film Studies Association emphasized the importance of combining critical studies with creative production, supported by interdisciplinary perspectives.
Industry partnerships have also strengthened the program’s development, including collaboration with documentary production house Watchdoc to enhance practical learning and documentary filmmaking.
The strong interest in the program coincided with a broader rise in applications to UPNVJ, which recorded 22,274 applicants through the SNBP 2026 pathway, an increase of 2,837 compared to the previous year. The figures indicate growing public confidence in the university’s strategy to develop relevant and industry-oriented academic programs. (www.upnvj.ac.id)
