(FEB NEWS) In its first year of status as a Legal Entity State University (PTN-BH), FEB UNAIR is no longer just talking about targets, but about disruptive strategies. This emerged at the 2026 Performance Contract Signing ceremony held solemnly at the KRT Fadjar Notonagoro Hall on Thursday, January 22, 2026. The event, attended by all department and unit leaders, was not just an annual ritual, but a declaration of readiness to face the increasingly dynamic and competitive landscape of higher education.

The Dean of FEB UNAIR, Prof. Dr. Rudi Purwono, emphasized that 2026 represents a different year. "Our knowledge and strategies have been studied by many universities. If we use the same methods, we won't move forward. We need a strategic leap," he said. This statement became the common thread throughout the agenda, marking a shift from traditional work patterns to collective innovation.

The 2026 performance contract sets an ambitious target: to boost the university's national ranking from 287th to 250th. "This represents a leap of 37 universities. It requires new steps, not business as usual," Prof. Rudi emphasized. This target stems from Universitas Airlangga overall commitment, which was declared in the contract signing with the Rector two weeks earlier.

To achieve this, FEB UNAIR will rely on a holistic, synergistic approach. Every department, from Economics, Management, Accounting, and Sharia Economics, as well as supporting units such as international programs, entrepreneurship centers, and research institutions, are tied together in a single, interconnected roadmap. "No one can work alone. Synergy between departments, units, and even student organizations is key," he added.

The main strategy underscored was strengthening strategic collaboration. The Dean highlighted several leading partnerships that serve as foundations, such as with BRI (Management), BPS and PLN (Economics), and Mitro and BPJS (Accounting). "We must maintain and foster these partnerships, not only through study programs, but also by inviting practitioners to participate in on-campus learning," he explained.

This approach is expected to create a knowledge ecosystem that mutually reinforces theory and practice. Collaborations with industry and government are no longer merely memorandums of understanding (MoUs), but are designed to generate curriculum innovation, applied research, and create career opportunities for students.

To ensure the strategy remains agile, a periodic evaluation mechanism will be strictly implemented. "We will conduct routine monitoring. If a strategy is ineffective, we must have the courage to change quickly. Agility is a weapon in the midst of disruption," said Prof. Rudi. This principle aligns with the "Excellence with Morality" spirit, a core value of the faculty.

The event, attended by Vice Deans I, II, III, and all department and unit heads, concluded with a message of collective strength. "Never view targets as an individual burden. If we work together, everything will feel easier. If we work with integrity, and we accompany it with prayer," he said.

Author: Sintya Alfafa