**UNIBA PKKMB 2026: Rector Encourages New Students to Think Critically and Prepare for the AI Era**

BATAM – Universitas Batam (UNIBA) held the 2026 Campus Life Orientation Program for New Students (Pengenalan Kehidupan Kampus bagi Mahasiswa Baru / PKKMB) from September 14–17, 2026, at Graha Bintang, Universitas Batam.

The four-day program served as an important first step for new students to become familiar with the university environment while preparing themselves for academic life and the various challenges they may encounter in the future.

Chairperson of the UNIBA PKKMB 2026 Organizing Committee, M. Rainbow Perdana, S.ST., MM, stated that PKKMB serves as a significant momentum for new students to begin their academic journey with renewed enthusiasm and aspirations.

He explained that the theme “Cakrawana Perkasa” represents the breadth of knowledge and perspectives, as well as the significant challenges that students will encounter throughout their academic journey.

“Cakrawana Perkasa means having broad perspectives and facing great challenges. Never feel insecure about your academic abilities compared to your peers. Every student has their own process and unique strengths,” he said.

Meanwhile, Rector of Universitas Batam, Prof. Dr. Ir. Samsul Rizal, M.Eng., IPU., ASEAN Eng., welcomed all new students who have officially become part of the Universitas Batam community.

“On behalf of the university leadership and Universitas Batam, I would like to welcome you and congratulate you on becoming part of Universitas Batam,” he said.

The Rector reminded students that entering higher education marks a new phase that requires greater independence in thinking and learning.

“Today marks the beginning of your life as university students. You must be able to think independently. You are no longer simply being given knowledge; you must take the initiative to seek and develop knowledge yourselves,” he said.

The Rector also encouraged students to develop both their academic abilities and soft skills, make use of student organizations and guidance from lecturers, and actively create innovative works.

“Create and innovate. We look forward to your contributions and achievements in bringing pride to Universitas Batam,” he said.

On the occasion, Mayor of Batam, Dr. H. Amsakar Achmad, S.Sos., M.Si., also delivered a session for the new students. He encouraged students to make the most of their university years as a period of growth and to develop their critical thinking skills.

“PKKMB serves as an initial orientation to help students become familiar with the campus environment and understand the academic environment,” Amsakar said.

He also reminded students to respond wisely to the rapid flow of information and to develop strong analytical skills. According to him, Batam’s strategic position along international trade routes requires highly capable and competitive human resources.

Throughout the four-day program, new students received various sessions covering campus life and the academic environment. On the third day, students also attended a session delivered by the National Narcotics Agency (BNN).

The PKKMB 2026 series officially concluded with remarks from the Rector of Universitas Batam on September 17, 2026. He expressed his hope that the entire program would provide new students with a clear overview of university life and the academic journey ahead.

“I hope that during these four days, you have gained an understanding of what university life and attending lectures will be like. I hope you can complete your studies efficiently and successfully,” he said.

Through PKKMB 2026, Universitas Batam hopes that its new students will be able to adapt to the university environment, continuously develop their abilities, think critically, build meaningful networks, and produce valuable contributions that bring pride to their alma mater and their families.