Students of the Master’s Program in Economics and Development Studies (MESP) FEB UNS achieved notable recognition at the 2025 Tidar International Conference on Economics, Management, Business, and Accounting (TICEMBA). During the international conference held on 30–31 October 2025, two MESP students—David Andrean and Sanefaro Infun J. Mofu—received the Best Presenter 1st Place and Best Presenter 3rd Place awards respectively.

The awards were presented by the Faculty of Economics, Tidar University, in collaboration with the Regional Development Planning, Research, and Innovation Agency of Magelang Municipality as an acknowledgment of the presenters’ strong delivery and research quality.

At the conference, David presented his research titled Do Infrastructure Indicators Reduce Rural Poverty? Evidence from Karanganyar Regency. The study examines how infrastructure development influences poverty levels in rural regions by assessing the dynamics between core and peripheral areas. David explains that Karanganyar, which consists of both growth centers and rural zones, offers an ideal context for assessing whether development narrows existing disparities or unintentionally widens them.

“I am very grateful to receive the Best Presenter title. It is a memorable experience because the participants come from various regions. This award motivates me to continue improving my research and public speaking skills,” David stated.

His greatest challenge involved simplifying complex findings into a concise yet meaningful presentation. Supported by PODES data from BPS and clear visualizations, his presentation was considered relevant, sharp, and accessible by the reviewers. David also expressed appreciation for the guidance of his supervisors, Sarjiyanto, Ph.D., and Malik Cahyadin, Ph.D., along with the support of peers and family. He hopes more MESP students will take the opportunity to join international conferences, adding, “We do not need to be perfect to begin. What matters most is the willingness to try. Shoot your shot, you never know which doors will open.”

Another Best Presenter awardee, Sane, delivered a study titled Regional Disparities and Determinants of Poverty in Papua: Klassen Typology Analysis and Panel Data Regression. His research is motivated by the development paradox in Papua, where improvements in macroeconomic indicators do not consistently correlate with substantial poverty reduction. In several periods, poverty rates have even increased.

“Concerns about the situation in Papua encourage me to examine the sources of inequality more rigorously. This is not only an academic study but also a modest advocacy effort to bring Papua’s issues to an international forum,” Sane explained.

During preparation, his greatest challenge involved balancing thesis proposal work with conference readiness. During the presentation, he needed to condense complex research into a concise and compelling delivery within a seven-minute timeframe. Sane expressed his gratitude to his supervisors, Dr. Evi Gravitiani and Sarjiyanto, Ph.D., for consistently supporting the refinement of his research. “TICEMBA serves as an essential platform to develop scientific communication skills, broaden insights on development issues, and introduce Papua’s concerns into academic discussions,” he added.

These achievements demonstrate the ongoing quality of research and academic development within the MESP Program, which remains aligned with regional and national economic issues.

The studies presented by the two MESP students contribute directly to SDG 1 (No Poverty) through comprehensive analysis of poverty reduction strategies. The topics on infrastructure and spatial inequality further support SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Their participation in the international conference also contributes to SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by promoting collaboration and knowledge exchange at the global level.