The amicable relationship between the Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Sebelas Maret (FEB UNS), and its alumni has been notably strong, especially over the past two years. This bond is reflected in the establishment of the KAFEB Foundation and the initiation of an endowment fund known as ‘Watu Abadi’. Numerous alumni, including the 1989 cohort, have actively contributed at the Watu Abadi.

This statement was made by Dr. Dwi Prasetyani, SE. M.Si., Director of the Directorate of Alumni and Student Entrepreneurship at UNS, during the opening remarks of the Sharing Session titled “Balancing Corporate, Business, and People Development.” The event was hosted by the Master of Management (MM) Program FEB UNS on Saturday, September 21, 2024, in the Konimex Hall, Bachtiar Effendi Building.

Dr. Prasetyani further explained that scholarships provided by KAFEB have shown remarkable growth over the past two years. In its first year, the fund allocation stood at around IDR 24 million, which then increased significantly to IDR 184 million in the second year. These scholarships are awarded based on three criteria: financial need, academic achievement, and active involvement in campus activities.

In addition to KAFEB scholarships, there is also the “Bakti Almamater” program, which provides support for students through mentorship, job placements in state-owned enterprises, and opportunities in the banking sector. KAFEB provides mentoring and assistance starting from application to interview stages. Additionally, Bakti Almamater KAFEB also offers financial support for students participating in achievement-oriented activities.

“The Faculty highly appreciates and looks forward to further support from alumni. This support needs to be effectively communicated, thus, it can truly elevate FEB’s achievements, ultimately enhancing the faculty’s reputation nationally and internationally,” she explained.

Moreover, there is an additional fundraising initiative outside of KAFEB called “Gerbang Pitulungan,” donations specifically established by the alumni for student scholarships.

Dr. Prasetyani expressed her sincere gratitude and appreciation for the efforts of FEB UNS and KAFEB. “KAFEB UNS is a source of pride for us all. FEB is the only faculty at UNS with a dedicated foundation and endowment fund. Nationally, very few faculties have such resources. FEB UNS serves as a benchmark within UNS, setting an example for other faculties. Thank you to our alumni, who have shown exceptional commitment and integrity in supporting the advancement of FEB and UNS,” she concluded.

Meanwhile, the Dean of FEB UNS emphasized the importance of fostering a sense of belonging among alumni. Alumni who maintain a strong connection to their alma mater, and feel pride and respect for it, contribute to its enduring value.

“When alumni reach a certain point of success, our hope is that they remember their institution and recognize that it played a role in shaping them. The values and lessons learned at UNS hold lasting significance,” he added.

The Sharing Session featured three guest speakers from the 1989 alumni cohort: Heri Purnomo, Director of HR and General Affairs at PT Alumni; Eko Ariantoro, Chief Commissioner of PT. Elnusa; and Danang Andriyanto from Bank Mandiri. The event was moderated by Retno Tanding Suryandari, Ph.D., Head of the MM Program, and attended by undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students, as well as the alumni from 1989 cohort. The session was engaging and featured many door prizes for active participants.