Press Release
Kediri, Indonesia – June 27, 2026 – The Pancasila and Civic Education Study Program of Universitas Nusantara PGRI Kediri (UNP Kediri), in collaboration with the Center of Conservation for Sustainable Ethnic Heritage (CaSEH), successfully hosted The 1st CIVITAS International Conference at the Cakrawala Mandala Nusantara Hall, Universitas Nusantara PGRI Kediri.
Carrying the theme “Cultural Heritage as Strategic Pillar of National Sovereignty: Advancing Legal Certainty, Citizenship Education, and Peace Journalism,” the conference served as an international platform for academics, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to exchange ideas on strengthening cultural heritage preservation while promoting citizenship education, legal certainty, and sustainable peace in an increasingly interconnected world.
The conference attracted approximately 270 participants representing 26 countries and more than 70 universities, research institutions, government agencies, and professional organizations, reflecting the growing international commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing contemporary global challenges.
The event was officially opened by Dr. Zainal Afandi, M.Pd., Rector of Universitas Nusantara PGRI Kediri, who emphasized the importance of higher education institutions in fostering global partnerships and producing impactful research that contributes to sustainable development and social harmony.
The plenary session featured distinguished international speakers from Indonesia, Malaysia, and Libya, including:
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Afifuddin Husairi bin Hussain (Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia)
- Dr. Naser Ali Abdulghani Idress (University of Benghazi, Libya)
- Dr. Agus Widodo, M.Pd. (Universitas Nusantara PGRI Kediri, Indonesia)
- Tuan Haji Rosli bin Haji Nor (ICOMOS Malaysia, former Penang Heritage Commissioner)
- Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ramizah Binti Wan Muhammad (International Islamic University Malaysia)
Throughout the conference, speakers highlighted the strategic role of cultural heritage in strengthening national identity, safeguarding sovereignty, promoting democratic citizenship, and supporting peace journalism amid rapid technological transformation and global social change. The discussions also underscored the importance of cross-border academic collaboration in generating innovative solutions to regional and global issues.
The 1st CIVITAS International Conference represents a significant milestone in UNP Kediri’s internationalization agenda. By bringing together scholars and professionals from diverse cultural and disciplinary backgrounds, the conference reaffirmed the university’s commitment to becoming a global hub for research, academic excellence, and international cooperation in Pancasila and Civic Education.
The organizers expressed their appreciation to all keynote speakers, presenters, reviewers, partner institutions, and participants for their valuable contributions. It is expected that the conference outcomes will strengthen international research networks and inspire future collaborations that advance cultural heritage conservation, citizenship education, and peaceful societies.
For further information:
Pancasila and Civic Education Study Program
Universitas Nusantara PGRI Kediri
Kediri, East Java, Indonesia
