JIMBARAN – Udayana University (Unud) held the inaugural meeting of its University Academic Senate (SAU) for the 2026–2031 term at the Jimbaran Campus. This meeting marks a significant step in strengthening the university’s institutional governance during its transition toward becoming a State University with Legal Entity status (PTN-BH). During the session, Prof. Dr. Drs. I Gusti Putu Bagus Suka Arjawa, M.Si., from the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP), was elected as the Chair of the Unud University Academic Senate (Tuesday, October 20, 2026).
The meeting was opened by the Rector of Udayana University, Prof. Ir. I Ketut Sudarsana, S.T., Ph.D. In his remarks, the Rector emphasized the vital role of the University Academic Senate in bolstering academic and institutional governance, particularly as the university navigates its transformation into a PTN-BH.
“The establishment of the University Academic Senate for the 2026–2031 term serves as a crucial moment for Udayana University to reinforce its institutional and academic governance. I trust that the Senate will perform its duties optimally, foster synergy with other university bodies, and develop policies that support the enhancement of academic quality and the future progress of Udayana University,” the Rector stated.
The Rector also expressed his hope that the newly formed leadership of the University Academic Senate would prioritize a spirit of unity, deliberation, and responsibility in carrying out their duties, ensuring that the university’s transition toward PTN-BH status proceeds effectively and sustainably.
The meeting was attended by 50 members of the University Academic Senate, including university leadership, deans, heads of schools, directors of institutions, as well as representatives of professors and faculty members from various departments. In accordance with the regulations, the interim session was chaired by the most senior member of the Senate, Prof. Komang Dharmawan from the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA), assisted by the youngest member, Dr. Subakharma Nesa from the Faculty of Law.
Following a democratic election process, Prof. Bagus Suka Arjawa was elected as the Chair of the Udayana University Academic Senate (SAU Unud) for the 2026–2031 term. In his inaugural remarks, he expressed his appreciation for the trust placed in him by all Senate members. He also emphasized the importance of strengthening the understanding of institutional governance as a foundation for driving the university’s progress.
“This is a historic moment for us as members of the University Academic Senate in the era of the university’s status as a Legal Entity State University (PTN-BH). Our goal is to advance our university so that it can compete with other higher education institutions. The primary foundation at this stage is to strengthen our understanding and institutional governance to ensure the future success of Udayana University,” said Prof. Suka Arjawa.
In addition to electing the Chair, the meeting addressed the appointment of the SAU Secretary. It was agreed during the plenary session that the newly elected Chair would be mandated to appoint a secretary to assist in carrying out institutional duties. One of the names proposed was Prof. Dr. drh. I Nyoman Suarsana, M.Si., taking into account his experience and track record in Senate governance.
The appointment of the secretary was determined through further discussion and deliberation, in compliance with the applicable regulations. Finalizing the full leadership structure of the SAU is a crucial step, enabling the subsequent formation of committees and the drafting of Senate regulations.
With the establishment of the SAU leadership for the 2026–2031 term, Udayana University is expected to further strengthen its academic and institutional governance, while supporting a focused and sustainable transformation toward its status as a Legal Entity State University (PTN-BH).