Jatinangor-June 14, 2025. The Student Association of Library and Information Science (HMPSI) from the Faculty of Communication Sciences at Padjadjaran University successfully held a comparative study event with the Student Association of Libraries (IMASIP) from the Faculty of Humanities at the University of Indonesia. The event took place on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the Moestopo Room of FIKOM Unpad, Jatinangor.
The event, themed “BRIDGE”, an acronym for Building Relationships, Inspiring Dialogue, Growing Together, aimed to forge meaningful connections, create a space for inspiring and constructive dialogue, and foster a process of mutual growth between the two student associations. The activities included a series of sessions with presentations, group discussions, and direct interaction between students and faculty representatives from both universities.
A Series of Warm and Insightful Events
The event began with a warm welcome from the HMPSI Unpad team, greeting the IMASIP UI delegation. The first welcome speech was delivered by Dr. Rd. Hj. Funny Mustikasari Elita, Dra., M. Si. (Head of the Library and Information Science Department at Unpad), followed by Mr. Ari Nugraha, S. Hum., M.T.I. (Head of the Library and Information Science Department at UI). The atmosphere became more cordial with speeches from the chairpersons of the associations, Rizki Lukmanul Hakim (HMPSI Unpad) and Alifa Mazaya (IMASIP UI).
Before the main session, the IMASIP UI delegation was invited on a FIKOM Tour to see the facilities and environment of the Faculty of Communication Sciences at Unpad. This provided a deep first impression before they gathered in the Moestopo Room for the main event.
The session continued with a video screening of the company profile and departmental presentations from each association. IMASIP UI presented its structure and work programs first, followed by a presentation from HMPSI Unpad. This session was a crucial moment to understand the differences and similarities in organizational governance and the initiatives they run. A particularly interesting point of discussion was the differences in the departments within the associations, which opened new insights for both parties.
The highlight of the comparative study was the Focus Group Discussion (FGD) held at Plaza Fikom. Participants were divided into groups, allowing for more intense and in-depth interaction between students from both universities. The FGD discussions centered on the associations’ work programs and organizational structures, delving deeper into new ideas and best practices that could be adopted. This was in line with the “BRIDGE” theme’s goal of Inspiring Dialogue.
Another memorable moment that strengthened the bond between the two associations was a small collaboration between the Creative Economy Department of HMPSI Unpad and the Finance Department of IMASIP UI. They successfully sold collaborative merchandise in the form of stickers, which served as a memento of the study visit. This showcased positive synergy between departments while also Building Relationships and the potential for Growing Together.
After the FGD, all participants returned to the Moestopo Room for a fun game session, which added to the cheerfulness and camaraderie. The game winners received prizes as a token of appreciation.
Recognition and Hopes for Future Collaboration
The event concluded with a plaque and certificate presentation for the comparative study between HMPSI FIKOM Unpad and IMASIP FIB UI, handed directly to Rizki (Chairperson of HMPSI Unpad) and Alifa (Chairperson of IMASIP UI). Before parting ways, all participants took part in a group documentation session and created a joint TikTok content, capturing the moments of togetherness and fun. One of the most memorable moments was the almamater exchange between the two universities, which symbolized unity and the spirit of collaboration, embodying the meaning of building relationships.
This comparative study provided significant benefits for the students of the Library and Information Science program at Unpad. In addition to expanding their relationships and networks, the activity also offered new insights into association management and innovative work programs, leading to Growing Together.
Ashila from HMPSI Unpad’s Creative Economy Department shared her impression: “The comparative study was a blast! We got to exchange stories (especially during the exciting FGD), everyone was friendly, it was just so much fun, I’m speechless! Oh, and I can’t forget to thank all the committee members—you guys are amazing! My hope is that our comparative studies will always be this incredible!”
The hope for the future is that this event can become a foundation for greater collaboration, and the positive outcomes can inspire HMPSI Unpad to continue to develop into a better and more innovative association. This comparative study was not just a visit, but an investment in building professional networks and developing the potential of students in the field of Library and Information Science, in line with the BRIDGE theme.
Author: Rodlybillah Sjafaat (NPM 210310240101), Public Relation Program Study, Faculty of Communication Science, Universitas Padjadjaran
