The dissertation research process carried out by Dr. Dra. Wiwik Dahani MT (right) in the Trisakti University laboratory, Jakarta

ITS Campus, ITS News –  Seeking knowledge truly transcends background, including age. This is evidenced by Dr. Dra. Wiwik Dahani, MT, a graduate of the Doctoral Program in Chemistry, Faculty of Data Analytical Science (FSAD), Sepuluh Nopember Institute of Technology (ITS). She graduated at the age of 63 and will be inaugurated at the 132nd Commencement Ceremony on Saturday (September 27).

The Trisakti University lecturer of nearly 40 years explained that his motivation for returning to college was solely driven by his love for pursuing knowledge. Furthermore, it also serves as a way to find meaning in life. “I want to motivate those around me to be passionate about pursuing knowledge, by showing them that if I can, why can’t they?” he said, encouragingly, with a 3.95 GPA.

The mother of five grandchildren chose ITS for a reason. ITS was one of her dream universities during high school, and her hometown, Surabaya, further strengthened her resolve, despite the nearly ten-hour journey from Jakarta to Surabaya. “Many of my old friends are at ITS, and the environment is also very supportive and progressive for my doctoral studies,” she said.

Dr. Dra. Wiwik Dahani MT (left) during a discussion during her doctoral studies at the ITS Chemistry Department

Furthermore, according to this mother of three, the Chemistry doctoral program at ITS is also a perfect fit for her current field of study, which is mining. Her dissertation was entitled ” Creating a Frother Based on Crude Palm Oil and Bamboo Activated Carbon for the Separation of Monazite from Tin Mining Tailings .” There, she explored more efficient techniques for extracting rare earth metals in Indonesia.

Of course, her educational journey hasn’t always been smooth sailing at her age. Physical challenges were a major stumbling block. In fact, just before her doctoral promotion defense, Wiwik was hospitalized due to her health condition. Despite this, she admits that her physical condition has actually improved during her studies. “Maybe it’s because I’m doing it with joy and wholeheartedly,” added the woman born on May 24, 1962.

Dr. Dra. Wiwik Dahani MT (wearing green kebaya) and her husband with children and grandchildren at the graduation ceremony of one of her children

However, her perseverance in overcoming these challenges was inextricably linked to the support of those around her. Although her children were initially concerned, they eventually came to her aid after seeing her mother’s enthusiasm. Furthermore, the support of her university has been a constant companion, making her journey of learning easier.

Through all these processes, this woman, who enjoys business, successfully completed her doctoral program in three years. She explained that the key to her success came from confidence and focus on her own goals. “If we have confidence, then strengthen it and live it wholeheartedly,” she emphasized.

After successfully earning her doctoral degree, Wiwik stated that she would continue working for the remaining 1.5 years of her working life before retiring at the age of 65. Before that, she wants to contribute as much as possible. “If possible, even after retirement, I want to continue working and providing benefits,” Wiwik said hopefully.

Ultimately, it’s not just the degree itself, but the journey and the process itself that are most valuable to Wiwik. Her unwavering spirit as a student and lecturer also supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) point 4, which focuses on quality education. “I hope this journey can inspire the younger generation to pursue their education,” she concluded. (ITS Public Relations)