Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI) has officially opened the registration for candidates vying for the position of rector for the 2025-2030 term, with applications accepted from March 3 to March 23, 2025. This significant leadership change, as articulated by Nanan Soekarna, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees (MWA), is not merely administrative but rather serves as "a strategic milestone" poised to shape UPI’s future.
Soekarna emphasized the urgency for selecting leadership equipped to navigate the challenges presented by digital transformation and globalization. Integrity, he asserted, must be of the highest caliber to uphold the standards of academic values and ethical leadership within the university. He noted, "Serta keberanian untuk membuat keputusan yang berpihak pada kemajuan UPI" (And the courage to make decisions favorable to UPI's progress).
The election process is under the guidance of Nu'man Abdul Hakim, the Chairman of the Selection Committee, who affirmed the registration process, stating, "Pengambilan formulir pendaftaran dan kelengkapan persyaratan bakal calon rektor dibuka mulai 3-23 Maret 2025" (Registration forms and requirements for prospective rector candidates are open from March 3 to March 23, 2025). If no candidates register by March 23, the committee will extend the application period from March 24 to April 9, 2025.
Following the application period, the verification of candidates' requirements will take place from April 9 to April 17, 2025, with the MWA set to announce the approved candidates on April 23, 2025. The election process is poised to occur during the plenary session of the MWA on May 15 and 16, 2025, culminating in the announcement of the newly elected rector.
The criteria for prospective rectors at UPI are comprehensive—candidates must align with 13 specific qualifications including being Indonesian citizens, not exceeding 60 years of age at the time of appointment, and possessing at least a doctoral degree. Candidates are also required to demonstrate integrity, commitment, leadership capabilities, national and international networks, as well as insightfulness on higher education issues.
Current rector Solehuddin, who has held the position since 2020, faces this impending shift after having served as the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs and Student Affairs prior to his current role. His educational background lends him expertise in child counseling sciences and he has been pivotal during his tenure. UPI's strategic direction, particularly amid these global transformations, will be influenced heavily by the newly appointed rector.
This rector selection process not only signifies administrative transitions within UPI but also reflects the institution's commitment to adapting to significant educational demands of the 21st century. The university aims to secure leadership poised to inspire unity across its campuses and guide the academic community toward sustained excellence.