UGM’s Functional Materials and Instrumentation Physics Research Group Holds Community Service Program at Muhammadiyah 1 Senior High School Yogyakarta: Exploring Quantum Science, Careers, and Finance in the World of Physics
The Functional Materials and Instrumentation Physics Research Group of the Department of Physics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, once again organized a Community Service Program on Wednesday, August 6, 2025. The event, themed The International Year of Quantum Science and Technology: Building the Future of Careers and Finance through Physics, took place at Muhammadiyah 1 Senior High School Yogyakarta and was attended by 60 enthusiastic Grade XI and XII students with a strong interest in physics.
The event began with an opening speech from the Principal of Muhammadiyah 1 Senior High School Yogyakarta, Drs. H. Heri Nugroho, M.Pd., followed by remarks from the Head of the Department of Physics UGM, Prof. Dr.Eng. Edi Suharyadi, M.Eng. In his speech, Prof. Edi emphasized the crucial role of physics in keeping pace with technological advancements and introduced the Department of Physics UGM, along with its diverse educational and research opportunities.
The main session was delivered in an interactive talk show format, featuring speakers from the Department of Physics UGM. The program’s chair, Dr. Muhamad Darwis Umar, S.Si., M.Si., attended alongside 10 other lecturers, all sharing inspiration and motivation with the students.
In his presentation, Dr.Eng. Ahmad Kusumaatmaja, S.Si., M.Sc., highlighted the differences between physics and engineering, particularly in the context of modern industry. He stressed that technological developments, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), are fundamentally built upon physics and mathematics. The students’ enthusiasm was evident when critical questions emerged, such as: “Will medical professions be replaced by AI?” The discussion expanded to recent research trends in China, including the development of surgical robots and Physical AI technologies.
Responding to these points, Prof. Dr.Eng. Yusril Yusuf, S.Si., M.Si., M.Eng., explained that technological transformations like Physical AI and Robotic AI could bring significant impacts to various professions. However, he emphasized that humans, as innovators and ultimate controllers of technology, will never be entirely replaced. Therefore, mastering fundamental sciences such as physics is an essential foundation for adapting and thriving in the future.
Through this Community Service Program, the Functional Materials and Instrumentation Physics Research Group at UGM aims to broaden students’ horizons on the future of education, careers, and finance in the era of quantum technology and AI, while fostering the younger generation’s passion for excellence and innovation in physics.
