UNAIR NEWS The Graduation 261 ceremony of 51动漫 (UNAIR), held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at MERR-C Campus, once again brought a sense of pride and joy to Airlangga Knights graduates. Among them was Verna Gladies Merry Inkiriwang, a graduate of the Master檚 Program in Human Resource Development (PSDM) at the Postgraduate School, who currently serves as Regent of Poso, Central Sulawesi.
Inkiriwang said she was deeply grateful to be part of the UNAIR academic community. She noted that her decision to pursue her studies at UNAIR was intentional. With a background in healthcare and a current role in politics, she was particularly drawn to UNAIR檚 leadership and human resource development programs. She noted that these programs are highly relevant to her work in both political and healthcare sectors.
From physician to regent
Inkiriwang also highlighted that UNAIR offers flexible learning arrangements, enabling students to study anytime and anywhere. She acknowledged the challenge of balancing her responsibilities as a regent while continuing her education, but remained steadfast in her commitment.
淎lthough I began my career as a physician and am now actively engaged in politics, it is essential for me to understand both political and governmental systems. Human resource development is applicable across sectors and supports my mission to further advance Poso Regency, she said.
Applying knowledge and driving innovation
For Inkiriwang, balancing her dual roles as a regent and a student was far from easy. However, she remained committed to acquiring knowledge that she could later implement in the region she leads.
淎ligned with my thesis on innovation labs aimed at improving the competence and performance of civil servants in Poso Regency, this initiative will provide a platform for them to learn collaboratively and build confidence in presenting their ideas and innovations, she explained.
Completing her studies at UNAIR represents a significant milestone. At 43, she successfully earned her degree despite a demanding schedule, reinforcing her belief that it is never too late to pursue education and broaden one檚 perspective.
淚 believe others can achieve the same. What matters most is maintaining determination. If we strive for personal growth, we must follow through to the end so that the outcome brings pride not only to others, but also to ourselves, she concluded.
Author: Fauziah Kandela
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
