Balikpapan, October 4 2025 – The Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK) once again marked an important milestone by holding its 19th Graduation Ceremony, which took place at the Integrated Laboratory Auditorium 1 of ITK. This historic and solemn occasion celebrated 709 students who had completed their academic journey through learning, research, and community service.

The 19th graduation ceremony was attended by the ITK Senate, consisting of the Rector of ITK, Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Agus Rubiyanto, M.Eng.Sc., the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, Prof. Erma Suryani, S.T., M.T., Ph.D., the Vice Rector for Non-Academic Affairs, Ir. Khakim Ghozali, M.MT., the Deans of each Faculty, ITK lecturers, leaders, and the broader academic community.

The ceremony began with the welcoming of the graduates and invited guests. The atmosphere grew even more festive with a traditional dance performance by ITK’s Dance Student Activity Unit (UKM Tari) accompanying the cum laude graduates, followed by a medley of regional songs performed by ITK’s Student Choir (PSM). The entrance procession of the Senate ensued, after which the Indonesian national anthem Indonesia Raya was sung, along with a moment of silence to honor the nation’s heroes.

The sacred proceedings were formally led and officiated by the Rector, Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Agus Rubiyanto, M.Eng.Sc., who inaugurated the Open Senate Session by striking the ceremonial gavel to mark the conferral of degrees. Following this, the ITK Hymn was sung. The Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, Prof. Erma Suryani, then presented the statistical report of the graduates, leading to the most anticipated highlight of the day—the formal conferral of degrees by the Rector. This was also symbolized by the awarding of diplomas, marking the official transition of ITK students into the professional world.

Two of the best graduates were chosen to lead the recitation of the Graduates’ Oath, echoed by all graduates in attendance. The Rector then delivered an inspiring speech on the role of ITK graduates in today’s global era. Adding to the event’s significance, the ceremony featured Scientific Orations delivered by Ferdinan Sihombing, Head of the East & North Kalimantan Representative Office of the Indonesia Stock Exchange, and Rizal Fernandy, S.T., M.MT., Director of PT Energy Lima Pilar, as well as a prominent faculty figure, offering new insights for the graduates.

Another memorable moment came from Muhammad Iqbal, the best graduate officially awarded the degree of Bachelor of Mathematics (S.Mat.). In his brief speech, Iqbal shared his long academic journey at ITK, highlighting his gratitude, perseverance, and the vital support of his family and lecturers, which he hoped would inspire his fellow graduates.

A touching scene followed when the best graduates presented flowers to their parents as a gesture of respect and gratitude. The solemn atmosphere was rekindled when all attendees sang the ITK March.

Before the closing, the Vice Rector for Non-Academic Affairs, Ir. Khakim Ghozali, M.MT., read the graduates’ impressions and messages. The celebration continued with a musical performance by representatives of the graduates. A closing prayer was offered, marking the end of ITK’s 19th Graduation Ceremony, sealed with the ceremonial gavel strike by the Rector.

As a finale, a short film created by Visual Communication Design students was screened, showcasing the graduates’ journey up to their graduation day, followed by the exit procession of the Senate.

Through its 19th Graduation Ceremony, ITK once again reaffirmed its commitment to producing graduates of integrity and character, ready to compete in the global era. The graduates are expected to become agents of change, contributing meaningfully to both the region and the nation, in support of realizing Indonesia Emas