UNAIR NEWS 鈥 Students from the Faculty of Dentistry (FKG) at 东京热 () have once again achieved international recognition. At the International Multidisciplinary Student Competition (IMSC) hosted by the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, on Saturday, November 1, 2025, the UNAIR team earned third place in the International Public Poster Competition category.
The team included Maryam Hanifa Hakim and Amirah Sabrina, students from FKG鈥檚 2023 cohort, guided by Drg. Dewina Marsha Larasati, SpPerio. Their poster, titled 鈥淔rom Clinic to Dental Chair: Treat Diabetes with CARE,鈥 explored the connection between diabetes and oral health. 鈥淚ndividuals with diabetes are two to three times more likely to develop gum disease and oral infections. We aimed to raise awareness that maintaining oral health is an essential part of managing diabetes,鈥 Hakim explained.
Inspiration and preparation
Hakim shared that her participation was inspired by a social media post announcing the competition. 鈥淪ince it was during semester break, I thought it would be productive to participate. I invited Amirah to join me,鈥 she said. In the team, Hakim handled conceptualization and visual design, while Sabrina focused on research and content development.
Their primary motivation was to gain new experiences and challenge themselves. 鈥淲e often saw our peers winning competitions, which created a bit of productive FOMO, the kind that drives achievement,鈥 Hakim noted. They also wanted to demonstrate that dental students can play an active role in public health initiatives.
The path to the competition was challenging. The team was initially placed on the waiting list and received confirmation only nine days before the event. 鈥淭ime was extremely limited, but we supported each other and stayed focused,鈥 Hakim said. Despite the tight schedule, they dedicated themselves to rigorous practice to deliver their best presentation.
Creative presentation and key takeaways
Their entry stood out due to its creative delivery. 鈥淲e used a puppet named Boni to help illustrate our presentation, like a mini-drama. It was a memorable experience, though nerve-wracking since we presented in English,鈥 Hakim recalled. This innovative approach captured the judges鈥 attention and helped them secure third place.
For Hakim and Sabrina, the experience offered invaluable lessons in collaboration, academics, and personal growth. 鈥淲e learned how judges evaluate entries, observed other teams, and now feel more confident participating in future competitions,鈥 Hakim said. Their achievement showcases the innovative spirit of FKG UNAIR students, expanding the impact of dental science while reinforcing UNAIR鈥檚 national academic reputation.
Author: Dara Devinta Faradhilla Editor: Ragil Kukuh Imanto
