Afni Isnaini Aprilia, a staff member at the UGM Faculty of Law Library, departed alongside her colleague Uminurida Suciati (UGM Faculty of Animal Science), who was selected to receive a prestigious scholarship for the “Transforming University Libraries Leadership & Innovation Programme (TULLIP)” organized by the National University of Singapore (NUS) Libraries from Monday (June 30, 2025) to Friday (July 4, 2025). In this program, Gadjah Mada University represents Indonesia, joined by 27 participants from various countries, including Thailand, Bhutan, the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, and Laos. This makes TULLIP an international forum rich in collaboration and the exchange of ideas.
The program aims to equip librarians with leadership and innovation skills to address the challenges and major changes occurring in the world of university libraries. TULLIP is designed as a platform for learning and the exchange of ideas among librarians from various ASEAN countries. The program not only emphasizes theoretical aspects but also provides practical approaches that can be directly applied in the university library environment. This training offers an opportunity to delve deeper into innovative leadership concepts, as well as strategies for creating and leading change within the context of university libraries.
This training places a primary focus on developing librarians’ leadership skills, with the aim of enabling them to manage rapid changes in the world of higher education. Topics covered include: leadership strategies, digital transformation of libraries, the application of advanced technology in library management, the development of user-centered services, and the use of data and AI to improve the library visitor experience. TULLIP not only focuses on individual development but also builds an inclusive library community and a knowledge-sharing platform. Activities include workshops, seminars, site visits, and discussions. Participants are also encouraged to collaborate on library case studies to hone their creative and innovative problem-solving skills.
In addition to gaining learning insights, participants were taken on a tour of NUS Libraries, visiting the National Library, the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, the Medical+Science Library, the Department of Food Science & Technology, and University Town. These visits provided valuable insights into the integration of innovative design, cutting-edge technology, and cultural elements in university library services
The participation of the UGM Faculty of Law Library staff in TULLIP aligns with UGM’s commitment to supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. This program supports SDG 4 by improving the quality of education and learning through the development of librarian competencies, while SDG 17 is realized through international collaboration between educational institutions and libraries from various countries.
Furthermore, participation in TULLIP also supports SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure by promoting the adoption of advanced technologies and innovations in university library information management systems. The implementation of digital technology, artificial intelligence, and data-driven approaches is a crucial component in building a robust knowledge infrastructure that is adaptable to the changing times. Meanwhile, by creating inclusive, comfortable, and technology-based learning spaces within the library environment, this initiative also aligns with SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, particularly in supporting the development of safe and easily accessible educational public spaces for all segments of society.
Staff participation in the TULLIP program is part of an ongoing effort to enhance staff capacity in the library field and lead transformation within the academic environment. The hope is that the knowledge and skills gained will enable the implementation of new, more efficient, and technology-based strategies, as well as the creation of libraries that are more inclusive, responsive, and user-oriented.
