BANDUNG – Institut Seni Budaya Indonesia (The Institute of Indonesian Arts and Culture)/ ISBI Bandung officially inaugurated two professors during an open academic senate session at the Sunan Ambu Arts Building on Thursday (2/4/2026). This prestigious event coincided with the university’s anniversary celebration. The institution honored Prof. Dr. Jaeni, S.SN., M.Si. in the field of Performance Communication and Theater Arts and Prof. Neneng Yanti Khozanatu Lahpan, M.Hum., Ph.D. in the field of Cultural Arts Anthropology.
The inauguration ceremony began with a solemn prayer and a captivating performance of the Bebrayan dance. Family members and colleagues filled the hall at 08:00 WIB to witness the academic milestone. The university conducted the session following the official decree from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology regarding the academic promotions of both scholars.
Preserving Performance Through Cultural Transmission
Prof. Jaeni delivered an insightful scientific oration regarding the sustainability of performing arts in West Java. He emphasized the urgent need for continuous cultural transmission between generations. He advocated for oral traditions and direct mentorship to ensure Sundanese culture remains vibrant and relevant. Prof. Jaeni further argued that dedicated performance spaces serve as vital tools for cultural diplomacy within modern society.
Exploring Identity Through Autoethnography
Prof. Neneng Yanti presented her extensive research on Indonesian cultural identity using the autoethnography method. She highlighted her work with local communities, specifically mentioning the Jatiwangi Art Factory (JAF) and its unique use of roof tiles as an artistic medium. She explained that autoethnography allows researchers to act as participants who reflect deeply on social phenomena. Her research reveals that small, often overlooked environments frequently hold the core of Indonesia’s cultural identity.
Inspiring Future Academic Excellence
The event concluded with the donning of the professors’ regalia and the screening of biographical videos. Rector of ISBI Bandung, Dr. Retno Dwimarwati, S.Sen., M.Hum., praised the achievements of the two new professors. She expressed her hope that this inauguration motivates other faculty members to enhance their research and educational quality. This double appointment strengthens ISBI Bandung’s contribution to the development of arts and sciences in Indonesia.
As reported by Adi Mukti of detikjabar/ photo doc tribunnews
