On Thursday, May 22, 2025, the Faculty of Science and Mathematics at Universitas Diponegoro (FSM UNDIP) held a retirement symposium in honor of Prof. Drs. Mustafid, M.Eng, Ph.D., at the 6th Floor Hall of the Acintya Prasada Building. The event served as a heartfelt expression of appreciation for Prof. Mustafid’s long-standing dedication to academia and institutional development, particularly within FSM UNDIP. More than a farewell, the symposium was also a moment of scholarly reflection and intergenerational connection among the academic community. It is hoped that, despite entering retirement, Prof. Mustafid will remain actively engaged and continue to contribute insightful perspectives and guidance for the advancement of the Faculty of Science and Mathematics.

The event began with remarks from the Head of the Department of Statistics, Prof. Dr. Drs. Tarno, M.Si., who expressed deep gratitude for the knowledge and commitment Prof. Mustafid has shared throughout his career. He emphasized that retirement is not an end, but rather the beginning of a meaningful new journey. “We hope that Prof. Mustafid embraces this new chapter with joy and fulfillment. May today’s gathering strengthen the bonds of our academic community,” he said.

The next speech was delivered by the Dean of FSM, Prof. Dr. Kusworo Adi, S.Si., M.T., who highlighted Prof. Mustafid’s pivotal role in shaping FSM’s development. He expressed hope that Prof. Mustafid would continue to share his insights as a respected senior. “FSM greatly values your advice and input. On behalf of the academic community, we sincerely apologize for any shortcomings during our interactions. May Prof. Mustafid continue to serve as a role model for us all,” he conveyed.

Following the opening remarks, Prof. Mustafid presented a biographical overview that outlined his academic journey—from his early days as a mathematics student at UNDIP’s Faculty of Engineering, to completing his master’s and doctoral degrees at Hiroshima University, Japan. He shared the various leadership positions he had held, including lecturer, faculty dean, and Coordinator of the Kopertis Region VI, along with his significant role in establishing several academic programs: the Statistics undergraduate program, Master’s in Information Systems, and Doctoral program in Information Systems.

Prof. Mustafid then delivered his scientific oration titled “Statistics for Contemporary Science,” which emphasized the importance of integrating statistics with digital technologies such as machine learning and artificial intelligence in building digital intelligence. He elaborated on the concept of intelligent analytics, which combines statistical reasoning, real-time data processing, and data-driven decision-making across various sectors, including smart cities, smart agriculture, and e-commerce.

The symposium continued with a book discussion session on “Novelty in Research,” a publication authored by Prof. Mustafid and reviewed by Prof. Ferry Jie, Ph.D., from Edith Cowan University, Australia. Prof. Jie underscored the significance of novelty as a critical component in advancing knowledge, whether through new theories, methods, or applications in different contexts. He also introduced several innovative research approaches to foster originality and highlighted his collaborative research with Prof. Mustafid in the areas of information systems and supply chain management.

This symposium was not only a tribute to an inspiring figure but also an intellectually enriching occasion. FSM UNDIP extends its highest appreciation to Prof. Mustafid for his remarkable service and accomplishments and wishes him continued happiness and well-being in his retirement.

[Public Communications/FSM/Meilia]