Advancing SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure): Universitas Andalas Inaugurates Seven New Professors to Strengthen Research and Academic Excellence

Padang, August 23, 2025 — Universitas Andalas continues to reinforce its commitment to quality education and sustainable innovation in line with SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) by inaugurating seven new professors from the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences and the Faculty of Humanities. The inauguration ceremony was held at the Convention Hall, Limau Manis Campus.

The seven newly appointed professors are Prof. Dr. Zilfa, M.S. in Analytical Chemistry, Prof. Dr. Suryati, M.Si. in Organic Chemistry of Natural Products, Prof. Dr. Armaini, M.S. in Food Biochemistry, Prof. Yenny Narny, M.A., Ph.D. in Social History, Prof. Dr. Dodi Devianto, M.Sc. in Statistics and Data Science, Prof. Dr. Anthoni Agustien, M.S. in Microbiology, and Prof. Dr. Henny Herwina in Entomology. The symbolic inauguration was marked by the conferment of honorary necklaces by the Chair of the Professorial Board, Prof. apt. Marlina, witnessed by Vice Rector I of Universitas Andalas, Prof. Dr. Syukri Arief.

In his remarks, Prof. Syukri Arief stated that the inauguration reflects Universitas Andalas’ strong contribution in producing highly qualified academic human resources. “Professors play a strategic role in maintaining the balance of the Tri Dharma of Higher Education. They are the driving force of innovation and serve as inspiration for younger lecturers and students to continue creating impactful work,” he said. He further emphasized that this milestone demonstrates the university’s consistency in producing sustainable research, impactful community service, and globally competitive graduates. Concluding his speech, he remarked, “Let knowledge be a path of service, research a source of hope, and community service a manifestation of love for the nation.”

Chair of the Professorial Board, Prof. apt. Marlina, highlighted the diversity and depth of research presented by the newly inaugurated professors. “We have seen how the natural resources of West Sumatra, such as zeolites, essential oils, and microalgae, can be developed for health and environmental applications. At the same time, we are invited to understand societal resilience through in-depth social history studies,” she explained. She also emphasized the relevance of research in the digital era, including time series analysis integrated with artificial intelligence and the exploration of biotechnology from thermophilic bacteria with strong industrial potential.

The presence of these seven new professors is expected to accelerate the development of research-based innovations and solutions to address various national challenges, ranging from environmental and health issues to technological and socio-humanities concerns. Prof. Marlina concluded, “The presence of these professors is not only a source of pride but also a valuable intellectual asset that will strengthen the nation. We hope the knowledge they produce will enlighten and benefit humanity as well as environmental sustainability.”

Through this inauguration, Universitas Andalas once again reaffirms its commitment to strengthening higher education and advancing impactful research in support of sustainable development.