Preparing Lecturers for Doctoral Studies: UM Bandung and UMAM Organize Pre-PhD Coaching
Bandung-Indonesia, Dozens of lecturers participated in the Pre-PhD Coaching at UM Bandung, receiving intensive guidance in research and academic publishing. This program also offers full scholarships for those aspiring to pursue doctoral studies.
The seminar room on the second floor of Universitas Muhammadiyah (UM) Bandung was livelier than usual. Dozens of lecturers from various faculties gathered enthusiastically, equipped with laptops and notebooks.
They were attending the Pre-PhD Coaching and International Journal Publication program, a two-day coaching session held on Thursday and Friday (February 20-21, 2025). This initiative was a collaboration between UM Bandung and Universiti Muhammadiyah Malaysia (UMAM).
Opening with an atmosphere of enthusiasm, the event aimed to equip lecturers with the necessary skills to prepare their research proposals and enhance the quality of their academic publications before pursuing doctoral studies. UM Bandung's Vice-Rector II, Ahmad Diponegoro, emphasized the program's significance in supporting the academic development of lecturers.
"This program serves as best-practice training in preparing for a PhD journey, helping to enhance the academic quality of our lecturers. We hope they can get ready as soon as possible and proceed with their doctoral applications," he stated.
Intensive Coaching: Understanding Research in Depth
Among the attendees, some were diligently taking notes as they listened to a presentation by UMAM Senior Lecturer Dwi Santoso. During his session, he highlighted that many prospective PhD students struggle with identifying research topics, selecting appropriate methodologies, and finding relevant research gaps.
"That’s why we introduced this program—to provide clear guidance while also introducing the study programs available at UMAM, such as education, social sciences, Islamic studies, business and management, and information technology," explained Dwi.
Throughout the two-day training, participants received in-depth coaching on key elements of research proposals, covering title selection, research methodology, and study limitations. The program aimed not only to enhance academic understanding but also to provide practical strategies for developing high-quality research.
Scholarship Opportunities for Lecturers
As part of this collaboration, UMAM is offering special opportunities for lecturers from Muhammadiyah Aisyiyah Higher Education Institutions (PTMA) and Muhammadiyah scholars who wish to pursue doctoral studies. A total of 250 full scholarships are available for eligible candidates.
"The scholarship covers full tuition fees for three years or six semesters. Participants who complete this Pre-PhD Coaching will also receive a certificate, which can be one of the requirements for securing a scholarship from the Muhammadiyah Central Board to study at UMAM," Dwi explained.
With this program, it is hoped that more lecturers will be able to pursue doctoral studies and contribute significantly to academia and international research. For participants, this opportunity is not just a training session but a crucial first step toward achieving their doctoral aspirations.