Dr. Dhoni Widianto, S.Sos, M.Si, an alumnus of the Department of Government Science, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Diponegoro University, class of 1991, is an example of how government science graduates are able to build long careers in the bureaucracy, even holding strategic positions in the provincial government.

Career Journey and Dedication to Good Governance

His career began in the most basic positions in bureaucratic oversight. Since 1997, he has served at the Central Java Provincial Inspectorate. Drawing on the knowledge he gained in college and years of experience in the field, Dr. Dhoni Widianto, S.Sos., M.Si., demonstrated his capacity as a reliable public auditor, eventually becoming the Inspector of Central Java Province in 2023. This long journey has been marked not only by promotions in administrative positions but also by tangible contributions to oversight, improving integrity, and improving local governance.

Currently, Dr. Dhoni Widianto serves as the Administrative Assistant to the Regional Secretary of Central Java Province, a strategic position that plays a crucial role in supporting smooth administration, coordination between regional agencies, and the implementation of strategic provincial government policies. Another important moment in his career occurred when he was entrusted with serving as Acting Mayor of Surakarta from September 25 to November 23, 2024. This appointment was made to fill the vacancy while Mayor Teguh Prakosa was on election campaign leave. During his tenure, he faced two major agendas: the implementation of the 2024 regional elections and the XVII Central Java National Paralympic Week. Dhoni firmly guarded the neutrality of ASN and created a conducive climate to ensure a fair and transparent democratic celebration.

Dr. Dhoni Widianto’s achievements didn’t stop there. He also initiated Solo as a pilot anti-corruption city, along with three other regions (Payakumbuh, Kulon Progo, and Badung). This initiative received support from the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and became part of the national agenda to strengthen the integrity of local government. For his contributions, he was awarded the Integrity Development Expert and Creative and Inspirational Anti-Corruption Counsellor Award from the KPK in 2023.

His academic track record is equally impressive. He earned a bachelor’s degree in government science from the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Diponegoro University (FISIP), followed by a master’s and doctorate in public administration from the same faculty. He also holds various prestigious professional certifications, including Certified Fraud Auditor, Qualified Risk Management Professional, Certified Government Chief Audit Executive, and Anti-Corruption Counsellor from the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK).

Dr. Dhoni Widianto’s story reflects the success of higher education, which produces not only academic graduates but also leaders of character capable of managing government with integrity and long-term vision. From the classrooms of FISIP UNDIP to the strategic offices of the provincial government, he demonstrates that the knowledge gained on campus can be a valuable resource for building a nation in concrete ways.

Message to UNDIP Government Science Students & Alumni 

In his message to Government Science students and alumni, Dr. Dhoni emphasised the importance of a never-give-up mentality and a readiness to expand one’s competencies:

“Never doubt and never give up. Stay motivated and pursue your dreams. Remember, success isn’t just achieved through hard work, but also through expanding your network and developing your soft skills.”

He also encouraged prospective students not to hesitate to take the Government Science major at UNDIP, which has opened up many opportunities for him and other alumni.