UPH Faculty of Design and Planning Represents Indonesia in Madrid Design Net

Universitas Pelita Harapan is the only Indonesian representative in the program. They offered this cooperation to UPH, because two years ago they saw the works of Alvin Tjitrowirjo ? UPH Interior Design lecturer ? and fell in love with his work. “We also want to build a good relationship with Indonesia, want to know the capital city ? Jakarta ? closer, and I think UPH can be our partner,” said Alejandro Norniella, IED Communications Manager.

MDN series of events began with the seminar held in Madrid, on February 22 until March 22, 2010. In this seminar, there were five themes presented, namely urban planning, innovation and technology, mobility, cultural, and environment. UPH chose a cultural theme, with the topic of creative cities. “Actually we are interested in all of the themes, because they can be explored in such an attractive way. But we finally chose creative cities, based on the fact that Indonesia is a pluralistic society. There are a lot of varieties in many things, but they seem to be separated as well. We try to learn from Madrid and other major cities, where we can see connections in all diversities,” said Elya Wibowo, as the UPH Acting Chairman for this program.

UPH accepted this offer of cooperation because Elya saw a great opportunity for students to develop knowledge, particularly on the design field. “I see that UPH students have great potentials. They have the ability and willingness to learn more, improve their design mind, and thus, this is a good opportunity to introduce the world to them,” said Elya.

Alvin seconded the opinion. “Those who study at UPH are really willing to learn. I know the quality of the students. The reason I become a lecturer is because I want to share my point of view and ideals. I’ll give those to people who want to learn seriously, so that we are together heading to the same direction,” added the alumni of RMIT University, Australia.

Basically, their expectation of this program is to create a better life through designs. “By looking at different things, we will also find various solutions. We hope this can inspire many people and make them aware that without the ideas appear in this program, our city will be collapsed over time,” said Alvin. “We believe that good design will change the world. It may sound ambitious, but it’s realistic. It’s still a long way to go, but we’re working on it,” added Alejandro. (cyn)