By: Prof. Dr. Ir. Budiyono, MSi – Dekan Sekolah Vokasi Universitas Diponegoro
Semarang (December 5, 2025) – The Vocational School of Diponegoro University officially launched a new student service platform called “Halo Dekan” during a socialization event held on December 5, 2025, at the UNDIP Vocational School campus. The event was attended by faculty leaders, heads of study programs, lecturers, IT teams, students, and invited speakers from the technology industry and the Central Java Provincial Government.
The platform is designed to serve as an official communication channel that enables students to report various academic and non-academic issues in a quick, convenient, and responsive manner. This initiative reflects UNDIP’s commitment to building an educational ecosystem that is inclusive, human-centered, and proactive in addressing student wellbeing.
Responding to Modern Student Challenges
The Dean of the Vocational School emphasized that students today face multidimensional challenges, including academic struggles, financial pressures, mental health concerns, family issues, and uncertainty about their future. “These issues can no longer be handled with passive, slow, and rigid administrative procedures. Universities must respond faster, show empathy, and act decisively,” he stated.
Powered by an AI-Based Chatbot
One of the key features of the platform is an Artificial Intelligence (AI) chatbot, designed to answer frequently asked questions related to student services at the Vocational School, including academic procedures, facility access, financial assistance, and administrative requirements. With this feature, students can receive information in real time, without waiting for office hours. The chatbot also serves as an initial response mechanism before reports are escalated to advisors or faculty leaders.
Campus–Industry–Government Collaboration
The launch of “Halo Dekan” involved collaboration with multiple stakeholders, including:
1. PT Ding Kloud Indokarya – represented by Mr. Robby and Mr. Antonius Bagus, who shared insights on data security, system integration, and user experience.
2. Central Java Provincial Government – represented by Ms. Agustina Tuty, S.Sos., M.I.Kom (Public Relations Analyst) and Mr. Widi Jatmoko (Manager of the “Lapor Gub Jateng” public complaint platform), who presented best practices in public communication, complaint handling, and transparency.
More Than Technology: A Cultural Shift
The Dean underscored that “Halo Dekan” is not merely a digital service, but a cultural transformation in university services. “This is not just a technological platform. It is a shift in service culture. Behind every system, there must be empathy and a willingness to act quickly.” The platform is expected to play a strategic role in preventing delayed graduation, student dropouts, mental health breakdowns, and loss of potential.
A Model for National Adoption
With the integration of technology, psychosocial support, academic monitoring, and cross-sector collaboration, the Vocational School believes that “Halo Dekan” has the potential to evolve into a national model for student welfare services at vocational institutions in Indonesia.
UNDIP’s Commitment to Student Wellbeing
The Vocational School hopes that “Halo Dekan” becomes a symbol of care, transparency, courage, and moral responsibility in supporting students throughout their academic journey.
About the Vocational School of UNDIP
The Vocational School of UNDIP offers 11 industry-oriented study programs, integrating practical expertise and technological innovation to build a high-impact educational environment for society.