Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University (UIN) Yogyakarta inaugurated six more professors through an Open Senate Session on Wednesday (April 8, 2026). One of the professors is Prof. Dr. Muhammad Wakhid Musthofa, M.Si., a lecturer in the Mathematics Study Program, Faculty of Science and Technology. One of the prominent academic ideas presented by Prof. Dr. Muhammad Wakhid Musthofa from the field of Applied Mathematics emphasized the importance of developing mathematical models to address the complexity of modern systems while simultaneously having a real impact on the public good.

In his inaugural address, titled "Regularity, Robustness, and Benefit: Robust Optimal Control Based on Dynamic Games in Descriptor Systems," Prof. Wakhid emphasized that mathematics does not stop at abstraction but must be able to serve as a strategic instrument in decision-making amidst uncertainty.

He explained that many real-world systems—from economics to technology to public policy—are complex and unstable. Therefore, a robust optimal control approach is needed, namely a system control method that remains effective even in the face of disturbances and uncertainty.

Furthermore, Prof. Wakhid developed this approach through dynamic games, which allow for the analysis of interactions between actors within a system. This approach is considered relevant for understanding strategic situations such as economic competition, resource management, and global policy dynamics.

Another important contribution lies in the application of this concept to a descriptor system, a mathematical system capable of representing complex conditions that cannot be fully described by ordinary equations. According to him, this model is closer to reality because it can capture limitations, constraints, and relationships between variables more comprehensively.

Prof. Wakhid's focus goes beyond technical aspects; he also emphasized that scientific development at UIN Sunan Kalijaga must be conducted within an integration-interconnection framework, namely linking science with Islamic and humanitarian values. From this perspective, mathematics is positioned as a tool for creating order and system resilience, ultimately leading to the common good.

"Knowledge should not stop in the academic realm, but must reach the benefit of society," he emphasized.

This idea also emphasizes that the development of Applied Mathematics at UIN Sunan Kalijaga is not only oriented towards strengthening theory, but also towards social relevance. This approach is crucial amidst the need for adaptive, resilient, and data-driven systems to face increasingly complex global challenges. Through this thinking, Prof. Wakhid positions mathematics as a crucial foundation in building systems that are not only technically efficient but also oriented towards values ​​and broad benefits for society.

Source: uin-suka.ac.id