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UNAIR NEWS — (UNAIR), through its Institute for Innovation, Journal Development, Publishing, and Intellectual Property Rights (LIPJPHKI), continues to affirm its dedication to advancing the quality of scientific publications. Since 2020, the institute has driven a significant rise in UNAIR journals indexed in Scopus, with the number reaching 17 as of March 2025.

LIPJPHKI Chair Prof. Hery Purnobasuki, M.Si., Ph.D., emphasized on Tuesday (April 23, 2025) that scientific publications are a vital outcome of research—not only producing ideas, but also generating books, copyrights, and patents.

He highlighted the critical role journals play in showcasing the work of Indonesian academics. “If every paper is submitted abroad at high cost, it’s a missed opportunity. Indonesia must also build strong journals. Since 2020, we’ve worked to index UNAIR journals to make them globally competitive,” he said.

Major shift since 2020

UNAIR’s journal development started from scratch—at the time, only one journal was indexed by Scopus. Now, UNAIR leads with 17 indexed journals, including one in collaboration with an overseas partner but managed locally by the university. “Back then, the Rector said that a PTN-BH like UNAIR should have Scopus journals. Thankfully, we’re now at the forefront,” Prof. Purnobasuki added.

This progress reflects collaboration across university units, strong leadership support, and rigorous management by LIPJPHKI. Each journal goes through comprehensive mentorship and quality assurance, from SINTA 6 to international indexing.

“No journal is handled carelessly. Each must have a home, dedicated managers, and a fully integrated system. We’ve designed this structure to ensure journals stay active and sustainable,” he explained.

Ongoing challenges and innovation

Despite leading nationally, UNAIR still faces challenges in maintaining journal quality and management. Most of its journals are currently ranked in Scopus’s Q4 quartile, although some have reached Q3 and Q2. The next objective is to attain Q1 status and expand into other prestigious indexes like Web of Science.

Prof. Purnobasuki admitted that journal management has always been a significant challenge. “It requires long-term commitment. That’s why we’ve recruited editors and administrators, and even involved students with incentives, to ensure the journals run smoothly,” he said.

Benefits for academic community

UNAIR’s journal achievements are proving highly beneficial for its academic community—including faculty members, students, and researchers. Beyond aiding doctoral graduation requirements, the indexed journals also foster opportunities for international research and academic collaborations.

“Once our journals are indexed, international scholars take notice. They contact editors, propose collaborations, and even develop joint research and educational projects,” said Prof. Purnobasuki.

To enhance visibility, UNAIR has also implemented a policy requiring faculty members who receive publication incentives to write popular science articles. “It’s our way of promoting research and strengthening UNAIR’s public presence,” he added.

Sustained commitment and future goals

Institutional leadership has played a pivotal role in this success. Through collective efforts and a collaborative spirit, LIPJPHKI aims to continue increasing the number of Scopus-indexed journals.

“Our target this year is to reach 20. But it’s not just about hitting numbers—we’re committed to maintaining quality, solid management, and academic integrity,” Prof. Purnobasuki concluded.

This achievement is proof that UNAIR is meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving academic landscape and moving steadily toward global recognition. With strengths not only in teaching and research, UNAIR is now setting the pace in international scientific publishing.

Author: Nafiesa Zahra

Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia