UNDIP, Semarang (April 16) – Amid the complexities of the digital era, particularly in addressing the spread of hoaxes and public communication crises, the role of strategic communication within higher education institutions has become increasingly vital. Recognizing this, Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP), through the Directorate of Media Network, Community, and Public Communication, held a Coordination Meeting on Publication and Promotion Activities with Public Communication Liaisons from all faculties and schools across UNDIP.
The event took place on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at the 4th Floor Meeting Room of the UPT Library and UNDIP Press, Tembalang Campus. This meeting served as a strategic platform to align public communication efforts at both the university and faculty levels for greater integration and impact.
Vice Rector for Research, Innovation, Cooperation, and Public Communication, Wijayanto, S.I.P., M.Si., Ph.D., attended the event to deliver opening remarks and officially inaugurate the meeting. In his address, he emphasized the importance of cross-unit collaboration in strengthening the institution’s strategic publication efforts.
“In line with the Rector’s tagline, ‘Noble and Valuable UNDIP,’ we strive to be an excellent institution in generating knowledge while also providing real value and benefit to society. In the digital era, academics should step up as reliable sources of accurate information rather than leaving that space solely to influencers,” he asserted.
Wijayanto, Ph.D., further highlighted the strategic role of public communication liaisons in building UNDIP’s credible image. Their role is essential in supporting the university’s goal of ranking among the world’s top 500 universities, especially in enhancing academic reputation through active media engagement.
“Well-structured and thoughtful public communication will help the institution not only anticipate crises but also effectively convey strategic messages to a wider public,” he added.
In her introductory remarks, Dr. Nurul Hasfi, S.Sos., M.A., Director of Media Network, Community, and Public Communication, noted that this forum was a collaborative space to strengthen inter-unit networks and amplify positive narratives about UNDIP across various communication channels.
“Publication and promotion efforts cannot operate in isolation. The role of public communication liaisons is crucial for maintaining information consistency, disseminating institutional achievements, and acting as the front line of public communication at the faculty and school levels,” Dr. Nurul said.
Dr. Nurul also emphasized the importance of responsive coordination in handling sensitive issues and reinforcing UNDIP’s reputation. She encouraged all liaisons to proactively detect potential crises and promptly establish communication with the university for appropriate response.
“The liaison’s role is not just to deliver news but to act as a strategic bridge between faculties/schools and the university. This synergy is essential for a more solid and impactful communication strategy,” Dr. Nurul concluded.
The coordination meeting continued with a group photo session and closed with a Sharing Session among public communication liaisons from faculties and schools. During this session, participants exchanged experiences, discussed challenges, shared initiatives in managing effective publications, and explored strategies for public communication within their respective units.
This event is part of the ongoing efforts by the Directorate of Media Network, Community, and Public Communication to strengthen a collaborative communication ecosystem at UNDIP and to elevate the quality of institutional publications and promotions at both the national and global levels. (DHW)
