MAKASSAR – Behind every institutional achievement are many unseen stories. Stories of people who arrive earlier and leave later, who solve problems without much attention, who work to make sure administration gets processed, and who devote decades of their lives to keeping the wheels of the organization turning.
The same is true at Hasanuddin University. Behind its rising rankings, achievements, and reputation are lecturers, administrative staff, and officials entrusted with keeping the campus organization running. Their service may not always appear in performance reports, but its traces live on in every academic service, every student served, every policy produced, and every step of the university’s progress.
For Unhas, such service deserves to be remembered. Honoring members of the academic community should be part of a culture of appreciation, a reminder of every contribution anyone has made to the institution.
Unhas Rector Prof. Dr. Ir. Jamaluddin Jompa, M.Sc, said that the people who work behind the scenes are true heroes for Unhas. They never expect thanks. But when the time comes for them to end their service, it is the duty of their successors to express appreciation.
“Some of them have completed additional duties as heads of units, faculties, and institutions. Others are ending their long journey through retirement. Although their roles differed, they all have one thing in common: they leave behind the foundation that allows Hasanuddin University to keep moving forward,” said Prof. JJ.
Unhas faces increasingly complex challenges, from strengthening governance and improving academic quality to efforts to strengthen Unhas’s position on the world stage. According to Prof. JJ, no achievement is the work of one individual. Progress can only be reached through a collective commitment built on integrity, professionalism, and a spirit of togetherness.
That view was echoed by Prof. Ir. Sumbangan Baja, M.Phil., Ph.D., who represented former structural officials. The former Secretary of Hasanuddin University said Prof. Baja sees every leadership mandate as a trust carried out for the sake of the institution, not for personal interests.
“That is why the university’s success is truly the result of the collective work of the entire academic community,” said Prof. Sumbangan Baja.
Similar appreciation came from representatives of the administrative staff: Head of the General Bureau Drs. Jursum, M.M.; Head of the Legal and Institutional Bureau Dra. Rosniati, M.M.; and Director of Finance, Accounting, and Reporting Mardani, S.H., M.Si. They described how administrative staff have long played roles that are often behind the scenes yet are the main pillars supporting the three pillars of higher education (tridarma) and the university’s governance.
Away from the spotlight, they make sure administration runs in an orderly manner, academic services remain optimal, policies can be implemented, and the many needs of the academic community are met. These contributions, which may not always be visible, are precisely what keep the university alive from day to day.
In the end, the progress of a university is built not only on big ideas or academic achievements but also on thousands of small actions carried out with responsibility and sincerity. Service over many years is what becomes a legacy for the next generation.
As a tribute to this dedication, Hasanuddin University held a Gala Dinner for members of the academic community who have completed additional duties or are entering retirement. The event, held on Friday, 24 July 2026, took place in a warm atmosphere with their families at Hotel Unhas & Convention, Makassar, as an expression of gratitude for the service that has been part of Hasanuddin University’s long journey.(*/dhs)
Editor: Ishaq Rahman
This article is an English translation of the original Indonesian report.