In alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which emphasizes inclusive and equitable quality education and the promotion of lifelong learning opportunities for all, Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES) consistently demonstrates its commitment to open education and public engagement. Through a variety of public lectures and community educational events, UNNES extends its educational mission beyond the boundaries of the university, making knowledge and innovation accessible to everyone. These initiatives reflect UNNES’s vision as a conservation and inclusive university that empowers society through lifelong learning.
Regular Public Lectures and Digital Outreach
UNNES regularly organizes open public lecture series and community educational events designed to foster collaboration between academia and the public. These events are frequently livestreamed via UNNES TV, enabling broader participation and accessibility, particularly for those unable to attend in person. In 2024 alone, UNNES TV featured 189 livestreamed educational programs, showcasing the university’s active engagement with diverse audiences. Participants include academics, government officials, industry professionals, educators, and members of the general public. By integrating technology and open access, UNNES ensures that learning opportunities remain inclusive and adaptable to modern educational needs.
Wide Range of Educational Topics
The themes of these open events cover a broad spectrum of fields relevant to both academic advancement and community well-being. Topics include sustainable development, digital transformation, health, and educational innovation, reflecting UNNES’s interdisciplinary approach to knowledge dissemination. Each event is designed to foster dialogue between experts and the public, encouraging discussions that connect scientific research with social and environmental progress. Through this range of topics, UNNES promotes an informed and educated society equipped to address contemporary challenges.
Empowering Communities Through Practical Learning
Beyond formal lectures, UNNES conducts ad hoc community learning programs that build the public’s capacity to adapt and grow in various aspects of life. These initiatives address pressing societal issues such as sustainability, public health, mental well-being through art and culture, small business development, family financial literacy, culinary entrepreneurship, and digital law. By engaging communities in participatory and practical learning experiences, UNNES not only shares knowledge but also strengthens the skills and resilience of individuals. These programs embody the university’s philosophy of empowering people to be active contributors to sustainable social development.
Examples of Inclusive Educational Engagements
Several notable programs illustrate the diversity and reach of UNNES’s public educational initiatives. Examples include lectures on molecular biology for biotechnology, which introduce scientific concepts to the wider public, and national leadership meetings on sustainability, which bring together young leaders to discuss future-focused strategies. Workshops such as the Catur Wanara dance explore art and culture as a medium for emotional and social development. Meanwhile, public lectures on technopreneurship encourage innovation and entrepreneurship, and sessions on sports injuries promote community health and safety. These examples highlight UNNES’s holistic approach to fostering knowledge across disciplines and social groups.
Integration into Major University Programs
UNNES’s public lectures and educational events are not isolated activities but integral components of its institutional programs. They are regularly featured in major university initiatives such as the Research and Innovation Expo, Education Week, and other thematic festivals. These events serve as platforms for the exchange of ideas, research dissemination, and community collaboration. By embedding lifelong learning within its core academic and cultural activities, UNNES reinforces its identity as an open, inclusive hub for knowledge sharing that contributes meaningfully to the achievement of SDG 4.
Through consistent public lectures, community engagement programs, and digital learning outreach, UNNES exemplifies its dedication to expanding access to education for all. These efforts ensure that learning is not confined to enrolled students but reaches communities, professionals, and individuals from diverse backgrounds. By fostering a culture of open, inclusive, and lifelong learning, UNNES continues to play a vital role in empowering society and advancing sustainable development in line with the global goals of SDG 4.
