Head of BPS RI Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti (left) with Deputy Head of BPS RI Dr. Sonny Harry Budiutomo Harmadi SE ME after the inauguration at the State Palace.

ITS Campus, ITS News — Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) has once again produced an academic figure who contributes at the national level. Namely Dr Sonny Harry Budiutomo Harmadi SE ME, a lecturer at the Department of Development Studies ITS, who was officially appointed as Deputy Head of the Indonesian Central Statistics Agency (BPS), last Wednesday (19/2).

As Deputy Head of BPS, Sonny bears a great responsibility in providing data that is not only needed by the government, but also the wider community. Data accuracy and credibility are crucial aspects in the policy-making process. “Therefore, I will strive to ensure that BPS continues to present accountable data,” he said.

As a reflection on his academic journey, the man born in South Sulawesi said that the role of a lecturer is not only limited to teaching in the classroom. More than that, an academic must also have a deep understanding of the decision-making process, both in the academic and public policy spheres.

Furthermore, the lecturer who also served as Chairperson of the Behavior Change Division of the National Covid-19 Handling Task Force said that the accumulated experience and knowledge gained have become important provisions in his career journey. Various opportunities in academic activities have also helped him develop and broaden his horizons in the fields of statistics and public policy.

Happiness of Dr. Sonny Harry Budiutomo Harmadi SE ME (two from left) with his family after the inauguration as Deputy Head of BPS RI.

In carrying out his duties at BPS, Sonny emphasized that the two main principles he always adheres to are hard work and high dedication. For him, these two aspects are the foundation for every step he takes, both in the academic and government worlds. “These two things are also what I have always applied throughout my career,” said the 50-year-old man.

The lecturer who was once Special Staff to the Minister of National Development Planning also said that working does not have to be limited to one place or one particular profession. For him, the most important thing is how the individual is able to contribute positively wherever assigned. “Whatever the role, we must be responsible and always give our best,” he said.

With full support from ITS, Sonny hopes to make a positive contribution to the national statistical system. He also advised academics, especially at ITS, to never stop learning and continue to develop themselves. “I believe that every individual must continue to develop in order to provide wider benefits to society,” concluded the father of three sons.

Sonny’s inauguration further emphasized that ITS not only produces excellent graduates, but also academics who play a strategic role in national policy making. In the future, it is hoped that there will be more synergy between the academic world and government in developing Indonesia. (ITS Public Relations)

Reporter: Andra Eka Wijayanti