Yogyakarta, May 6, 2025 — Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) once again demonstrates its commitment to advancing digital transformation and human resource development in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) through the implementation of the AI Certification Program elevAIte Batch 1, attended by 60 selected participants. The activity took place at the Computer Laboratory, Library and Archives Building of UGM, and is part of a major initiative to produce one million AI talents in Indonesia
This certification program is a follow-up to the elevAIte Master Trainer training, which previously successfully trained 100 selected participants from within Universitas Gadjah Mada. This activity marks an important milestone in UGM’s digital transformation journey and serves as a tangible contribution of the people-oriented university in supporting Indonesia’s vision as a hub of technological power and digital innovation in the region.
The elevAIte program is the result of a strategic collaboration between Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Microsoft Indonesia, and KOMDIGI RI. This initiative is part of a national program to produce one million AI talents with strong technical capabilities and digital ethics, in order to support the development of an inclusive and sustainable digital ecosystem.
In implementing this certification, UGM demonstrates strong internal collaborative capacity. The UGM Digital Transformation Bureau leads this activity, actively supported by the Directorate of Human Resources (HR), the Directorate of Information Technology (DTI), the Alumni Office, as well as the UGM Library and Archives. This cross-unit involvement reflects how synergistic cooperation can drive the success of the university’s strategic programs.
Dr. Mardhani Riasetiawan, MT, Head of the UGM Digital Transformation Bureau, stated that this certification is an important step in ensuring that participants possess industry-standard competencies in AI. “We do not only aim to provide training, but also to ensure that participants have professionally recognized skills and are ready to compete globally. This certification serves as validation of their readiness to become part of the national AI ecosystem,” he said.
The AI certification conducted today includes a series of competency-based tests that reflect real-world demands in the digital era. The exam materials cover the fundamentals of artificial intelligence, AI ethics, the application of machine learning, as well as the use of Microsoft AI-based platforms and technologies. This activity is facilitated by certified instructors and examiners who have undergone intensive training from Microsoft and KOMDIGI.
From the participants’ perspective, enthusiasm and excitement were evident from early in the morning. The participants were selected from various faculties and work units at UGM, including lecturers, administrative staff, and students, all of whom had previously undergone training stages. One participant shared their impression, “The elevAIte training has broadened my understanding of the strategic role of AI across various fields. This certification motivates me to continue learning and contributing to technological development in Indonesia.” The elevAIte program is not only about enhancing individual capacity but also about building a digital community capable of inspiring and training more people. Graduates of this certification are expected to become ambassadors of digital transformation who will disseminate AI knowledge and skills within their respective environments, at the faculty, university, and broader community levels.
Collaboration with Microsoft Indonesia is also a key element in the success of this program. Through its global initiatives in supporting technology education and digital talent development, Microsoft provides training platforms, online learning resources, and standardized certifications. According to a representative from Microsoft Indonesia, activities like this demonstrate the company’s commitment to supporting Indonesia’s digital education and economy. The elevAIte program and AI certification are also supported by KOMDIGI RI. Through its facilitative role, KOMDIGI strengthens synergy among stakeholders—academia, industry, and government—in building a sustainable AI ecosystem.
Moving forward, Universitas Gadjah Mada will continue organizing subsequent waves of training and certification, targeting a broader range of participants, including institutions within the Merdeka Campus consortium and regional government partners. With a spirit of collaboration and innovation, the implementation of the elevAIte Batch 1 AI certification marks an important milestone in UGM’s journey toward becoming a leading digital campus and a center for technology talent development in Indonesia.
