BANDA ACEH — The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) at Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK) has once again marked a historic milestone during the May–July 2026 Graduation Period. A total of 323 graduates from postgraduate, undergraduate, and Diploma III programs were officially conferred their degrees. This figure represents the highest number of graduates in the faculty’s history, with graduates coming from the Departments of Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Informatics, Statistics, and Pharmacy.
The achievement marks an important moment for FMIPA USK, not only because of the record-breaking number of graduates but also because of the diverse fields of expertise represented by the graduating class. The graduates are expected to apply the knowledge and competencies they gained throughout their studies to contribute to various sectors, including academia, research, industry, government, and other professional fields.
During this graduation period, the academic achievements of the graduates were distributed across three levels of education:
Master’s Program (S2): A total of 46 students graduated, consisting of 12 men and 34 women. The graduates achieved an average GPA of 3.81, with the highest GPA reaching 4.00. The average study period was 1 year and 8 months, while the average time required to complete their theses was 9.4 months.
Bachelor’s Program (S1): A total of 259 students graduated, consisting of 67 men and 192 women. They achieved an average GPA of 3.47, with the highest GPA reaching 3.94. The graduates completed their studies in an average of 4 years and 2 months, while the average time required to complete their final projects was 6.1 months.
Diploma III Program (D3): A total of 18 students graduated, consisting of 5 men and 13 women. They achieved an average GPA of 3.59, with the highest GPA reaching 3.89. The average study period was 3 years and 2 months, while the average time required to complete their final projects was 5.7 months.
The record number of graduates also reflects the continued development of FMIPA USK in producing highly competent human resources in mathematics and the natural sciences. With seven academic fields continuing to grow, FMIPA USK plays a strategic role in preparing graduates to meet the increasing demands for skilled professionals amid rapid developments in science and technology.
The increase in the number of graduates is also part of the faculty’s ongoing commitment to fulfilling the university’s Three Pillars of Higher Education, particularly through education, research, and community service. Each graduate carries with them not only academic knowledge but also valuable experiences gained through research, organizational activities, student programs, and various academic and non-academic challenges throughout their university journey.
Dean of FMIPA USK, Prof. Dr.rer.nat. Ilham Maulana, S.Si., M.Si., expressed his appreciation for the achievements of the graduates. In his address, he emphasized that academic achievements are only one part of the foundation needed to succeed after graduation.
“The degree and GPA you have earned are not the only things that matter. Equally important are the soft skills that accompany them and can be applied in society and the workplace. One of the most important soft skills is communication—not merely through the words we speak, but also through our actions, behavior, and body language. As MIPA alumni, pay attention to how we treat others, because the way we treat other people reflects how we wish to be treated by others,” Prof. Ilham said.
His message serves as a reminder that graduation marks the beginning of a new chapter that requires graduates to adapt to a broader and more dynamic environment. The professional world and society require more than technical knowledge and academic expertise. They also demand the ability to communicate effectively, collaborate with others, solve problems, make responsible decisions, and build positive relationships.
For the Master’s graduates, their research experience and thesis work provide a strong foundation for pursuing careers in academia, research institutions, industry, and other professional fields. Meanwhile, Bachelor’s and Diploma III graduates are expected to apply the knowledge and practical skills they have acquired during their studies to address challenges and opportunities in the workplace.
The diversity of academic disciplines represented by the graduating class also creates broad opportunities for contribution. Graduates of Mathematics and Statistics, for example, can contribute to data analysis, modeling, and decision-making processes. Informatics graduates can play an important role in digital transformation and technological development. Meanwhile, graduates in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Pharmacy can contribute to research, healthcare, industry, environmental management, and scientific innovation.
Beyond the numbers, the 323 graduates represent individual journeys filled with dedication, perseverance, and achievement. Behind every name recognized during the graduation ceremony lies a story of lectures, examinations, research, thesis or final project completion, personal challenges, and countless hours of preparation. Their achievements were also made possible through the support of their families, lecturers, administrative staff, and the entire FMIPA USK academic community.
The graduation ceremony also represents a moment of pride for the families of the graduates. After completing their academic journey at FMIPA USK, the graduates now enter a new phase of life with the responsibility to put their knowledge into practice and create meaningful contributions to society.
As members of the FMIPA USK alumni community, the graduates are also expected to maintain strong connections with their alma mater and fellow alumni. A strong alumni network can serve as an important foundation for future collaboration in education, research, innovation, professional development, and community service.
The historic achievement of 323 graduates during the May–July 2026 Graduation Period further demonstrates FMIPA USK’s commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically capable but also equipped with strong character, integrity, communication skills, and a sense of responsibility toward society.
Through this historic milestone, FMIPA USK hopes that its newest graduates will continue to uphold the reputation of their alma mater, demonstrate high integrity, and make meaningful contributions to the advancement of science, technology, and society.
The record-breaking graduation is expected to serve as further motivation for the entire FMIPA USK academic community to continuously improve the quality of education, strengthen research and innovation, and prepare future generations of graduates who are ready to respond to the challenges and opportunities of an ever-changing world.
