Bandarlampung – A tragic event unfolded at the Institute of Technology Sumatera (Itera) on Friday, February 28, when a student identified as NA was found dead near the laboratory area of the campus, prompting immediate calls for investigation and transparency from university officials.
Wakil Rektor Bidang Keuangan dan Umum Itera, Ir Arif Rohman, S.T., M.T., addressed the situation with determination, expressing the institution's commitment to fully support the investigation surrounding the student's death. “Itera berkomitmen untuk mendukung penuh segala proses yang diperlukan dalam situasi ini,” he remarked, emphasizing the university's dedication to handling the matter appropriately.
The incident occurred during inclement weather as NA and friends were reportedly heading toward the laboratory. “Saat kejadian, kondisi cuaca di Itera memang sedang hujan. NA dan rekan-rekannya terlihat oleh tim pengamanan Itera menuju area parkiran laboratorium, namun setelah diperiksa almarhum ditemukan dalam kondisi terbaring di letak tersebut,” stated Arif Rohman, emphasizing the response from the campus security team who observed the students.
Concerns over the circumstances of NA's death have spurred questions from the university community and beyond. Arif Rohman acknowledged this uncertainty, stating, “Namun, untuk memastikan info yang akurat, proses medis dan investigasi lebih lanjut menjadi kewenangan pihak family serta pihak berkuasa yang berkompeten.” He urged respect for the grieving family and the investigative process, highlighting the sensitivity required during this tragic time.
Meanwhile, university officials have been working closely with NA's family, which is based in Jambi, to provide support. “Kami mengimbau seluruh pihak untuk menghormati privasi family dan menunggu info resmi dari pihak yang berwenang,” Arif Rohman said, advocating for patience as official inquiries proceed. The importance of privacy for the family was underscored, acknowledging the emotional toll such incidents can have.
Many students and staff at Itera have expressed their grief and concern for their peers and the community's wellbeing. Numerous calls have emerged for clearer communication from the university about safety measures and support systems beyond the immediate response to the tragic incident.
Reports indicate varying levels of unease within the student body, as many seek reassurances about their safety on campus following the incident. Itera’s administration is expected to address these safety concerns comprehensively as part of their broader response strategy.
While Itera has expressed its commitment officially, the university community is eager for transparency about the steps being taken to prevent future incidents. Questions linger about campus health and safety protocols, especially during adverse weather conditions, as well as measures to support students facing mental health challenges.
Arif Rohman continued to stress the necessity of open communication and assured follow-ups. The investigation, he noted, will also serve as a learning opportunity for Itera to improve policies and student welfare moving forward.
Tragedies such as this can highlight the need for more comprehensive mental health support within educational institutions, pushing universities to reflect on how they can provide adequate resources for their students. The imperative for colleges to not only respond to crises but also to proactively prevent them remains at the forefront of discussions among academic leaders.
Arif Rohman’s statements and the university's active engagement with the grieving family represent initial steps taken by Itera to navigate this difficult situation. The coming days and weeks will be pivotal as the university continues to address the needs of its community and, more immediately, the questions surrounding NA's untimely passing.
Moving forward, it is expected students at Itera will be closely watching the university's actions and recommendations as they emerge from this difficult period. The conversations spurred by this tragedy could lead to meaningful changes within the university's approach to student wellness and safety.