Evening of Togetherness, IPB University Rector Calls Students a Source of Inspiration during 8 Years of Service

IPB University held an Evening of Togetherness between the Rector and Students themed “Moving Forward Together for Indonesia.” In the warm gathering, Prof. Arif expressed his deep gratitude and appreciation to the students, whom he referred to as a source of inspiration during his eight years of leading IPB University.

It is known that this event was held following Prof Arif’s appointment as Head of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) on November 10, 2025. This occasion was designed as a farewell moment between the Rector and the students.

“I would like to thank you for our togetherness all this time. Students are also an inspiration for me,” he said on Saturday (11/29).

He emphasized that every criticism, question, or action from the students is an important part that encourages the creation of various campus policies. In fact, according to him, the progress of IPB University has been made possible thanks to the collective contributions of the students.

“If you ask, you criticize, if I remain silent, it doesn’t mean I ignore you. It means I am thinking about what steps I should take to respond. Thanks to your input, your criticism, your demonstrations, IPB can be what it is today,” he said.

During his leadership, IPB University recorded various strategic infrastructure developments aimed at improving the quality of student experiences. Some of these include the construction of a Halal Business Incubator, the development of a mini soccer field, the enhancement of campus bus facilities, as well as the provision of a creative lounge in the library.

He even gave an example of improving basic facilities such as campus toilets, which were carried out to directly respond to student complaints.

Under Prof Arif’s leadership, IPB University also recorded a significant surge in global rankings. In the QS World University Rankings (WUR) 2026, IPB University is ranked #399 in the world and #92 in Asia.

In the QS WUR by Subject Agriculture and Forestry 2025, IPB University achieved a global ranking of #49, #10 in Asia, and #1 in ASEAN. In the Asia University Ranking by Subject 2025, IPB University made it into the top 10.

In addition, the Times Higher Education (THE) Interdisciplinary Science Rankings 2026 placed IPB University at #42 in the world and first in Indonesia, surpassing various other national universities.

“IPB can be like this not because of the rector, but because the students care about IPB, are proud of IPB, and sincerely strive to give their best,” he stated.

Through this Evening of Togetherness, Prof Arif conveyed his farewell while also delivering a message for students to continue to be inspiring, both at IPB University and in their future journeys.

“Because inspiration can come from words, but it is better through achievements,” said Prof Arif. (*/Rz) (IAAS/KMR)