Harmony in Science: A Clear Direction for the Future

Education, science, and technology have always been fundamental in building a better civilization. This spirit underpins the doctoral journey of Adi Surya Pradipta, a student in the Materials Science and Engineering Doctoral Program at FTMD ITB. Currently, he is pursuing a double degree at the University of Tsukuba, Japan, funded by the Doctoral Scholarship Program for Indonesian Lecturers (PDDI).

For Adi, this opportunity is more than just an academic pursuit; it is a moral responsibility to provide broader benefits for Indonesia. As a civil servant lecturer at Politeknik Manufaktur Bandung (POLMAN Bandung), he views his doctoral studies as a contribution to the nation’s intellectual growth through education, research, and scientific development.

In Harmonia Progressio & Imagine the Future

At ITB, this mission is reflected in the motto In Harmonia Progressio, which emphasizes progress growing in harmony. Meanwhile, the University of Tsukuba champions the spirit of “Imagine the Future,” encouraging the academic community to envision the future and manifest it through knowledge.

Adi believes these two mottos complement one another. Harmony provides the direction to ensure that science develops with the right values, while imagining the future drives research toward tangible solutions. Together, they serve as a reminder that higher education does not end with personal achievement but must yield a significant impact on society and the nation.

Research as a Path to Solutions

Adi’s research focuses on the development of functional materials to support clean energy production and water treatment. At ITB, he is supervised by Arie Wibowo, S.Si, M.Si., Ph.D., while at the University of Tsukuba, he is guided by Prof. Takahiro Kondo. His study is aimed at designing materials that operate effectively under visible light, offering potential as eco-friendly technologies for future needs.

One notable aspect of studying in Japan is the opportunity to view research from a more holistic perspective. In a collaborative academic environment like the Kondo-Oki Laboratory, research is understood as a collective effort to find solutions, deepen understanding of core issues, and address life’s challenges through a measurable scientific approach.

Cultural Collaboration Enriching the Learning Process

Studying in both Indonesia and Japan allows for the convergence of two equally valuable academic cultures. The warm and adaptive nature of Indonesia blends with the orderly, disciplined, and meticulous research culture of Japan. This synergy is expected to positively impact the research progress and the maturation of scientific thinking.

Furthermore, this cross-cultural experience broadens the perspective on the role of science. Research is not merely a laboratory activity but a way to understand the world, identify the needs of the era, and contribute to the search for solutions that benefit humanity.

Hopes and Contributions

Through the ITB and University of Tsukuba double degree program, Adi hopes to produce research that is both academically robust and socially relevant. The intended outputs are not limited to scientific publications but include the strengthening of knowledge and technology that support clean energy and sustainable environmental solutions.

Moving forward, he intends to utilize this doctoral experience to contribute back to Indonesia, particularly in higher education, applied research, and the development of innovations that benefit the public. His hope is simple: that the knowledge gained truly serves as a path to provide value for his institution, the nation, and the future of Indonesia.

Student Profile

• Name: Adi Surya Pradipta

• Previous Institution: Politeknik Manufaktur Bandung

• Student ID (NIM): 33725001

• Double Degree Program: PhD in Materials Science and Engineering (FTMD ITB) & Doctoral Program in Materials Innovation, Degree Programs in Pure and Applied Sciences, Graduate School of Science and Technology (University of Tsukuba)

• Scholarship: Doctoral Scholarship Program for Indonesian Lecturers (PDDI), PPAPT, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology RI (2025)

• Research Focus: Development of photoanode materials for green hydrogen production and wastewater treatment