Held at the Seminar Room of the UPT Library of Universitas Syiah Kuala, the Mathematics Study Program organized a workshop entitled “Preparation for Student Creativity Program (PKM) Proposal Submission” on September 26, 2018. This workshop was conducted in response to the low level of student participation in prestigious national competitions such as the Student Creativity Program (PKM). Through this activity, the study program aimed to increase students’ awareness, proposal quality, interests, talents, and motivation to actively participate in PKM activities, including research, community service, and other creative fields.
Moderated by Dr. Siti Rusdiana, the workshop began with opening remarks delivered by the Secretary of the Mathematics Study Program, Dr. Rini Oktavia, and was followed by a presentation from Drs. Bandung Arry Sanjoyo, M.Ikom. A lecturer from Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS), Drs. Bandung Arry Sanjoyo was invited because he has served as a national PKM reviewer and jury member under the Directorate General of Higher Education (Dikti) since 2009. In his presentation, he explained that PKM is a highly prestigious program for universities, and therefore each higher education institution strives to submit as many high-quality proposals as possible in order to compete for medals at the National Student Scientific Week (PIMNAS).
Following the presentation session, the workshop continued with a direct review of PKM proposals prepared by mathematics students as part of the Research Methodology course. It was clearly observed that mathematics students actually possess strong ideas and considerable potential in preparing PKM proposals. However, proper guidance is essential to ensure that this potential is developed optimally and not wasted, as emphasized by the former Vice Dean III of FMIPA ITS. In addition to students, several lecturers from the Mathematics Study Program also attended the workshop. The activity concluded with the presentation of a souvenir by the Secretary of the Mathematics Study Program and a group photo session.