Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) held an Open Session to commemorate 106 years of Higher Engineering Education in Indonesia (PTTI) at the West Hall, Ganesha Campus, Bandung, on Friday (July 3, 2026). This centennial-plus celebration serves as an important reflection on the institution's role in producing superior human resources and its contribution to the nation's progress.
Rector of ITB, Prof. Dr. Ir. Tatacipta Dirgantara, M.T., emphasized in his opening remarks that the history of engineering education is not merely a past artifact, but a foundation for addressing future challenges. He highlighted the importance of intellectual humility and a culture of collaboration as key for higher education institutions to remain relevant in the 21st century.
"The excellence of an institution is no longer measured by its independence, but by the extent to which it can act as a node connecting various forms of intelligence to generate benefits for the broader society," said Prof. Tatacipta. According to him, interdisciplinary and cross-institutional collaboration represents the maturity of civilization in addressing crucial issues such as energy transition and food security.
The event also featured renewable energy expert, Tri Mumpuni, who delivered a scientific speech entitled "Science and Technology for Life Sustainability: between Growth, Social Justice, and Environmental Preservation." She emphasized that technological innovation must be oriented toward social inclusivity while maintaining ecological balance.
As a form of appreciation for real contributions to the advancement of engineering education, ITB presented the Ganesa Widya Jasa Adiutama award to 11 figures and the Ganesa Wirya Jasa Adiutama award to 9 other figures. These awards were given for the recipients' extraordinary dedication to the development of science and support for institutional growth.
Closing the series of events, ITB reaffirmed its commitment to remain a driving force for adaptive innovation. The institution is determined not only to excel in the academic sphere but also to stand as a guardian of human values in delivering tangible solutions for sustainable development in Indonesia.
