AFEB PTMA 2026 Meeting in UMJ Discusses Impact-Based Higher Education Transformation

The Association of Muhammadiyah and Aisyiyah Higher Education Business and Economics Faculties (AFEB PTMA) convened its 2026 National Working Meeting at Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ), drawing a record 80 percent participation rate from its members. The annual gathering centered on the theme: “From values to impact: Advancing digital, inclusive, sustainable, and Islamic economics,” highlighting the critical need for higher education institutions to adapt to a transforming world.

UMJ Vice Rector III, Prof. Dr. Tria Astika Endah Permatasari, emphasized that universities must now act as catalysts for innovation, sustainable development, and societal transformation, not merely educate graduates or publish research. She stressed that a university's future success depends on its collaborations and the collective impact it creates. Permatasari advocated for adopting a new paradigm, the fourth-generation university, which is globally connected, innovation-oriented, digitally driven, socially responsible, and sustainable.

Andy Dwi Bayu Bawono, from the Central Leadership Council of Muhammadiyah’s Education and Development Assembly, praised AFEB PTMA's active role among Muhammadiyah's 75 associations. He cautioned against "sudden incompetence" arising from outdated skills, urging universities to equip students not only with high GPAs and hard skills but also with essential soft skills and international certifications in areas like Artificial Intelligence, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. This, he argued, is crucial for graduates to be ready for the workforce and make a tangible impact.

FEB, as a key pillar for funding and driving PTMA institutions, is encouraged to strengthen its student admission strategies and adapt its curriculum to global challenges, with a particular focus on entrepreneurship. Prof. Dr. Muzakar Isa, Chairman of AFEB PTMA, reported that 54 out of 267 PTMA programs have achieved "Unggul" (Superior) accreditation, with a target to push all programs towards national and international superior accreditation. He reiterated Muhammadiyah's principle of "fastabiqul khairat" (racing to do good), aiming not just to meet but to consistently surpass standards through innovation.