The development or redesign of curricula in higher education is a routine activity in response to scientific advancements, societal needs, and stakeholder requirements. In the context of the Biology Study Program at UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, one such curriculum development activity involved a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with invited experts. Among the speakers was Dmitry Ivankov, Ph.D., from the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology in Russia. This event took place on August 8, 2019.

Dmitry Ivankov explained that the Russian education system for specialist, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs does not use a credit-based system; instead, it relies on a package system. When students enroll in a program, they must pass all courses within that program package. Additionally, there are two types of assessments: grade-based and passing grade-based. Examinations are conducted in written and oral formats. If a student fails, they can participate in remedial sessions: remedial 1 (10 days after grades are released), remedial 2 (4 days after grades are released), and remedial 3 (no specific schedule; students meet directly with instructors).

The curriculum orientation for the Biology Study Program aims to equip students with fundamental knowledge in biology and its applications, along with Islamic studies, social and cultural aspects, information technology, and language skills. The goal is to produce graduates who excel not only in academic competence but also possess moral and ethical values rooted in Islamic teachings.