UPH Online Learning Communication Program (Pendidikan Jarak Jauh Ilmu Komunikasi / PJJ Ilkom) conducted its inaugural lecture for the 2023/2024 cohort on Saturday, August 26, 2023. The event was held at UPH Lippo Village Campus with 210 new students attending the session. 

Besides marking the beginning of their learning journey, this inaugural lecture also introduced students to UPH’s online learning system, which utilizes Learning Management System (LMS) and Moodle technology. This technology enables the students who are mostly working professionals, to pursue their studies flexibly. 

PJJ Ilkom is an innovative offering from UPH, providing a flexible educational solution in the field of communication. The program features a hybrid approach to lectures, supported by lecturers and tutors who are committed to providing support, answering questions, and delivering constructive feedback to the students. 

The series of inaugural lectures for the new students began with an address by PJJ Ilkom Head of Study Program, Rambu Naha, S.I.Kom., M.I.Kom. Rambu emphasized that during their time at UPH, new students would follow a curriculum closely aligned with the demands of the professional world. This approach aims to equip students with the knowledge needed for their future careers. 

“Welcome to UPH, new PJJ Ilkom students! We are thrilled to welcome young professionals from diverse backgrounds. At UPH, our coursework is designed to align closely with the professional world, supporting your future careers. Our learning method allows you to access our learning content online to give you flexibility in pursuing your study,” Rambu explained. 

Furthermore, Rambu expressed her hope that students would effectively manage their time and roles. “We hope you can enjoy this academic journey, even while juggling the roles of being a student and a working professional, balancing your coursework with office responsibilities. Our lecturers are always ready to provide support and guidance throughout your studies,” he added. 

The high-quality curriculum and flexible learning methods were strong factors motivating new students to choose the PJJ Ilkom program at UPH. This decision was echoed by Ashira Zamita (Singer and Public Figure) and Rahardian Aji Purwoko (Executive Assistant to Director of Human Capital & Corporate Affairs and Manager of Employee Data Quality & Services at PT Garuda Maintenance Facility Aero Asia, Tbk.). According to them, they made the right decision to join the PJJ Ilkom at UPH because the education provided by UPH meets their needs to upgrade their competency and support their career development. 

“Before enrolling at UPH, I conducted thorough research on education options suitable for professionals like me, especially considering my dynamic schedule in the entertainment industry. Based on recommendations from friends, I discovered that the PJJ Ilkom at UPH offers flexible and comprehensive learning methods. Additionally, they emphasized the supportive nature of UPH’s lecturers. I personally experienced this support from day one. When I first arrived, I felt warmly welcomed, and during the initial lecture, the professor provided clear explanations and guidance,” Ashira shared. 

Agreeing with Ashira, Rahardian explained that he had a similarly positive experience when attending his first lecture at PJJ Ilkom. He also mentioned that one of his reasons for choosing PJJ Ilkom at UPH was to enhance his knowledge in the field of communication, which was essential for his current job. 

“I have a strong interest in communication, and my current role requires advanced skills in this area. I am confident that I will gain extensive knowledge from the professors here. I opted for UPH’s Working Professionals Program due to UPH’s well-established reputation as a high-quality university,” Rahardian stated. 

Through PJJ and other UPH Employee Class Program, individuals can pursue higher education while balancing their careers. With a range of program options available, prospective students can select a field of study that aligns with their interests and current professional paths.