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Degradation of professorial title and shifting boundaries of prestige
Indonesia has more than 5,000 registered professors. Of these, only about 3,200 are actively involved in teaching and research
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Virtual graduation: A professor (left) virtually high-fives a graduate during a Jakarta State University (UNJ) graduation ceremony held in Jakarta on Saturday. The ceremony celebrated 2,946 graduates and used technology to replace physical attendance amid the COVID-19 pandemic. (JP/Seto Wardhana)
F
ollowing an investigative report by a weekly magazine in early July about the scandalous awarding of professorships to dozens of lecturers at a state university, a professor and the rector at a private university in Yogyakarta decided to remove all academic titles from his name in all campus documents except for student diplomas and transcripts.
The debate on the "desacralization" of academic titles, including “professor”, has since become a compelling issue, especially in the context of the academic challenges faced by educators. They strive to reach the pinnacle of their academic careers as full professors by fulfilling the Tri Dharma (Three Virtues) of higher education: teaching, research and community service.
In fact, some people are given the title professor not because of their academic achievements, but because of their discoveries, services or dedication to the nation. These honorary titles do not carry the same obligations as those set forth in Article 72, Paragraph 1 of Law No. 12/2012 on Higher Education, which states that academic positions for permanent lecturing include assistant experts, lecturers, associate professors and professors.
For scholars who have earned the title professor, the duties of writing and research never end. They continue to produce scholarly works that contribute to society and academia. The path to becoming a professor is not easy, often requiring publications in international journals and the need to meet other academic criteria.
It is therefore understandable that this title is considered sacred by many. The narrative of the desacralization of the professoriate could be directed at those who receive degrees without fully performing academic duties. For academics who progress through the functional ranks, the title professor should remain sacred, reflecting recognition of scholarly contribution and consistent service.
Based on data from the Education, Culture, Research and Technology Ministry in 2023, Indonesia has more than 5,000 registered professors. Of these, only about 3,200 are actively involved in teaching and research in accordance with the Tri Dharma of higher education. Approximately 1,800 others have earned the title of professor through honorary channels or contributions outside of academia.
Desacralization may affect public perception of academics and reduce their motivation to reach the pinnacle of their careers. But it could also foster a more egalitarian academic environment where degrees are no longer a barrier to innovation and contribution.
