Balikpapan – They once shared stories about teaching. Now, they share the joy of completing their doctoral studies together. Andika Ade Indra Saputra and Rossana Margaret Kadar Yanti, a married couple who teach Civil Engineering at Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK), graduated together at the 134th Commencement Ceremony of Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) on Saturday, October 10, 2026.

Behind this achievement were the daily responsibilities they carried as lecturers, doctoral students, and parents to two daughters. Managing their time, working through exhaustion, and making room for family were all part of their journey.

For Rossana, affectionately known as Rossa, pursuing further education is a responsibility she holds as an educator. This conviction encouraged her to keep learning and seek opportunities to strengthen her abilities.

“As a lecturer, I have always believed that pursuing a doctorate is not a choice, but a responsibility,” she said.

From Teaching Colleagues to Life Partners

Andika and Rossa both completed their bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in Civil Engineering at ITS. Their relationship, however, grew closer when they became teaching colleagues at ITK. During her undergraduate years, Rossa had known Andika only as a senior student.

Working together gave them more opportunities to exchange ideas. As a junior lecturer at the time, Rossa learned from Andika and discussed teaching with him. Conversations about work gradually developed into a relationship, and they married in early 2017.

Andika also encouraged Rossa to pursue doctoral studies alongside him. Their mutual support became an important part of navigating the demands of education and family life.

Making Time for Research and Family

For Rossa, the greatest challenge was balancing family, study, and work. Their two daughters were still at an age when they needed close attention and guidance, while academic responsibilities also had to be fulfilled.

At times, the couple sacrificed rest to keep up with their duties as students and lecturers. When their routines became exhausting, however, they chose to take a break from demanding discussions about research and work.

They used that time to enjoy being together, both as a couple and with their children. Conversations shifted to school stories, daily activities, and their daughters’ experiences with friends.

These simple breaks helped them maintain a close family bond throughout their studies. Completing their education remained a goal, while ensuring their children received attention from both parents.

Bringing Sediment Research to Kalimantan’s Rivers

For her doctoral research, Rossa studied river sedimentation—the movement and deposition of material carried by flowing water. Specifically, she examined how seasonal flow dynamics, sediment supply, and river hydraulic conditions interact to influence changes in river morphology.

Her research is expected to provide a scientific foundation for sustainable river management. The approach integrates water flow and sediment management, maintenance of river structures, and regular monitoring of changes in river form.

For Rossa, this knowledge is relevant to Kalimantan, which is home to many large rivers. She hopes her research can contribute to improving river systems and reducing the impacts of river degradation.

She also plans to share her fieldwork and laboratory research experience with ITK Civil Engineering students through lectures and practical classes. This will help students understand the research process and the challenges involved.

Rossa emphasized the importance of community participation as well. Through community engagement activities, she hopes to build partnerships that help realize the potential of rivers while jointly addressing the impacts of their degradation.

Completing Their Studies, Continuing to Grow

Their doctoral degrees have given Andika and Rossa new perspectives on learning and growth, both in science and in life. For them, this achievement provides a foundation for continuing their responsibilities as educators and parents.

To lecturers and students who are pursuing or preparing for further study, Rossa offered a message: keep praying, keep making the effort, and never hesitate to exchange ideas with colleagues.

“Every process has its challenges, and every challenge opens an opportunity to find a solution,” she said.

Two doctorates under one roof hold a story of shared time and sustained support. Having begun as teaching colleagues at ITK, Andika and Rossa now continue their journey with new knowledge to share with their family, students, and community.