General description
One of the results of educational reform at ITB in the 1970s was the establishment of a uniform first-year education program for most undergraduate programs. To ensure the smooth running of this program, in 1973 ITB formed an organizational unit called the Joint Preparation Program (PTPB), which at that time was led by a Head of PTPB. This program aims to provide a strong foundation in science, art, and technology for new students, as well as being a vehicle for initial development in forming scientific attitudes and adaptation to the learning culture in higher education.
Over time, the TPB program has undergone various significant changes, both in terms of curriculum, organizational structure, number of students, and majoring process. Currently, the number of TPB students reaches around 5,300 people each year, so efficient and standardized class management is needed. In this context, the role of PTPB is very crucial in maintaining the quality and uniformity of the learning process and academic administration.
Entering 2025, along with the implementation of the 2024 Curriculum, PTPB has officially transformed into the Joint Preparation Directorate (Ditsama) led by a Director. This change not only reflects organizational transformation, but also an expansion of roles. If previously the main focus was on managing basic science courses in the first and second semesters, now Ditsama also manages Compulsory Institute Courses (MKWI) and strengthens its role in fostering student character.
Through a more comprehensive approach, Ditsama is committed to forming students who are not only intellectually superior, but also responsible, adaptive, have good communication skills, and are able to solve problems wisely.
Another major change in the 2024 Curriculum is the majoring process. Starting in 2025, student majoring will no longer be done at the end of the first year (second semester), but at the end of the first semester, based on the student’s interests and academic achievements. Faculties/schools play an active role in introducing various fields of science so that students can choose the study program that best suits their interests and potential.
In addition, there has been a change in the management of lectures: the TPB courses for semester I are managed by Ditsama, while the TPB courses for semester II are managed directly by each study program.
As a form of commitment in assisting the academic transition process, Ditsama presents the ITB Pre-University Program, a strategic initiative to help high school students and new students prepare themselves to face the challenges of college life. This program aims to foster interest in higher education, strengthen academic readiness, and develop basic skills needed in college.
The ITB Pre-University Program consists of two main programs:
- Inspiring: Inspiring students through an introduction to the academic world and learning experiences in college.
- Bridging: Bridging the gap between secondary education and higher education with initial academic preparation.
Although our name has changed, our vision and spirit remain the same—accompanying and preparing students to achieve academic success, not only intellectually but also in character.