UNIPMA — The Faculty of Law (FH) of Universitas PGRI Madiun (UNIPMA), in collaboration with Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST), Philippines, conducted an academic visit to the Class I Madiun Correctional Institution on Wednesday, October 28. This international initiative focused on directly observing rehabilitation programs, empowerment initiatives, and preparations for the social reintegration of incarcerated individuals.

The delegation was led by FH UNIPMA Dean Dr. Siska Diana Sari, S.H., M.H., accompanied by Study Program Head Dr. Sulistya Eviningrum, S.H., M.H., faculty members, students, and delegates from NEUST Philippines. The delegation was welcomed by Tutut Jemi S., Head of Administration at the Class I Madiun Correctional Institution, along with the prison’s structural officials.

The visit was designed as an application of experiential learning. Through direct observation, students from both universities were able to connect legal theories learned in the classroom with the practical implementation of law enforcement and correctional systems in the field.

Tutut Jemi S., Head of Administration at the Class I Madiun Correctional Institution, explained that the role of modern correctional institutions has shifted from merely serving as places for the execution of criminal sentences to becoming centers for social rehabilitation.

“Correctional services are not solely concerned with the execution of criminal sentences, but also with rehabilitation, empowerment, and preparing incarcerated individuals to return to society equipped with practical skills and improved attitudes,” he stated.

Echoing this perspective, the Dean of FH UNIPMA emphasized the importance of global synergy in broadening students’ academic horizons.

“We hope this experience will broaden perspectives on correctional systems while opening opportunities to strengthen academic and institutional collaboration in the future,” said Dr. Siska Diana Sari, S.H., M.H.

During the visit, the delegates observed various self-reliance development programs at the Class I Madiun Correctional Institution, ranging from vocational training and handicrafts to batik-making and independent production units. These programs are designed to equip incarcerated individuals with practical skills that can support their economic independence after completing their sentences.

This activity represents an implementation of the Three Pillars of Higher Education (Tridharma Perguruan Tinggi) and the Impactful Campus initiative. It also supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) through hands-on learning and international academic networking; SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) through the development of productive skills among incarcerated individuals; SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) through a deeper understanding of judicial and correctional systems; and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through cross-border and interinstitutional collaboration.

Through sustained collaboration with NEUST Philippines, UNIPMA remains committed to producing globally minded graduates who can translate knowledge into meaningful contributions to society.