International Expert Lecture by the Library Science Program at UIN Sunan Kalijaga: Enhancing the Competencies of Global Librarians

Yogyakarta, October 3, 2024 – The Library Science Program at the Faculty of Arts and Cultural Studies, UIN Sunan Kalijaga, held an International Expert Lecture series with the theme “Empowering Knowledge, Shaping the Future.” The event was attended by students from the international class cohorts of 2021 through 2023. Held at the Integrated Lecture Building (GKT) of UIN Sunan Kalijaga, the seminar began at 8:00 a.m. WIB and continued until its conclusion.

The three speakers featured in this event were:

1. Nurul Aida Noor Azizi, Librarian at the Tun Abdul Razak Library, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Shah Alam, Malaysia.
2. Dr. Sri Rohyanti Zulaikha S.Ag., S.S., M.Si., Lecturer at UIN Sunan Kalijaga.
3. M. Ainul Yaqin, S.Pd., M.Ed., Lecturer at UIN Sunan Kalijaga.

The seminar was led by M. Solihin Arianto, S.Ag., S.S., M.LIS., a lecturer at UIN Sunan Kalijaga, who served as moderator and guided the discussion.

The keynote speaker, Nurul Aida Noor Azizi, discussed digital library management in her presentation, noting that it has become essential for supporting access to information in the modern technological era. She emphasized the importance of innovation in library services and librarians’ ability to adapt to technological advancements.Librarians are expected not only to manage physical collections but also to be able to utilize technology to expand the reach of information to the public.

In addition, Sri Rohyanti Zulaikha and M. Ainul Yaqin highlighted the importance of strengthening students’ global competencies, particularly in preparing them to compete in the international job market. Both shared their perspectives on how libraries play a role in supporting education and research across the globe.

The participants, especially the international students, were very enthusiastic about the discussion session. Many questions were asked about the challenges and opportunities facing libraries in the digital age. This lively discussion also provided participants with new insights into the importance of librarians having technological skills.

This event is part of the Library Science Study Program at UIN Sunan Kalijaga’s efforts to prepare graduates who are competent and ready to compete at the international level. Through this seminar, it is hoped that students will continue to improve their skills—both academically and professionally—and contribute to the advancement of the library field in the future.

Author: Nurul Azka (aka)