Management Students of UNU Jogja Win Bronze Medal and Special Award at OPI 2026

Yogyakarta, Indonesia — Students from the Management Department of Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Yogyakarta (UNU Jogja) won a Bronze Medal as well as a special award for “Research with High Social Impact” at the 2026 Indonesian Research Olympiad (Olimpiade Penelitian Indonesia/OPI) in the Social Humanities category.

The team, consisting of Yunita Nurma Hidayati, Yuyun Apriani, and Dian Ayu Maghfiroh, presented a research project titled “Analysis of Fintech Implementation to Enhance the Economic Independence of Persons with Disabilities in MSMEs in the Special Region of Yogyakarta.”

Yunita explained that the research idea emerged from the team’s concern over the rapid development of financial technology (fintech) services, which are still not fully accessible to persons with disabilities.

“People with disabilities involved in MSMEs actually have strong economic potential, but they still face various barriers, especially in technology access and digital literacy,” she said on Saturday (9/5).

In addition to receiving the Bronze Medal, the research was recognized for its significant social impact on issues of economic and financial inclusion for persons with disabilities.

“For us, this award is not merely a competition achievement, but also a reminder that research should provide real benefits and create more equal economic opportunities for persons with disabilities,” Yunita stated.

Campus and Supervisor Support Strengthen Students’ Achievement in National Competition

Throughout the competition process, Yunita and her team received support from the university, ranging from administrative assistance and competition registration funding to moral support during the preparation of their research and presentation.

“Students need space and support to grow. When the university actively accompanies their process, they become more confident in competing and demonstrating their potential,” said Budi Sutiono PN, the team’s supervisor from the Management Department.

Yunita and her team also stated that the learning process at UNU Jogja helped them develop research skills, critical thinking, public speaking abilities, and teamwork.

“In class, we are encouraged not only to understand the material, but also to analyze ideas and present them effectively,” Yunita added.

In addition to academic strengthening, students are encouraged to become more sensitive to social issues so they can produce relevant and impactful research for society, including issues related to economic inclusion for persons with disabilities. [Latifah]