Universitas Muhammadiyah Purworejo (UMPWR) has once again achieved an outstanding milestone on the international stage. Annie Nurfaticha, a 2023 cohort student of the Management Study Program, successfully brought pride to the university by winning three awards at the Indonesia Youth Excursion Network (IYEN) 2026, held at the University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from April 21–24, 2026.
The IYEN program is an international youth initiative that brings together young people from various countries to broaden global perspectives, understand cultural diversity, and strengthen cross-disciplinary and cross-national collaboration skills. Throughout the program, participants engaged in learning sessions, developed innovative projects, and presented their ideas before an international panel of judges.
Competing with 30 participants from universities across Indonesia to Taiwan, Annie—who hails from Ketanggan Village, Gringsing District, Batang Regency, and is an alumna of Ma'had Tahfidz Al Quran Daarussalaam Kendal and Pondok Modern Muhammadiyah Darul Arqam 01 Patean Kendal—successfully earned the Best Leader Team Award, 2nd Place in Video Innovation Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and 3rd Place in Project Innovation.
In the competition, Annie and her team introduced an innovative project called WarungRise, a digital application designed to empower traditional small shops (warung) in Indonesia. WarungRise addresses key challenges faced by micro-entrepreneurs, particularly limited access to technology and financial capital. Through a digital transaction recording system, the application helps build a credit score for shop owners, enabling them to gain access to financing from financial institutions.
Key features of WarungRise include a digital cashier system, integrated financing access, a learning platform, and business mentoring. This innovation was recognized as relevant and impactful, as it aligns with the values of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting community economic empowerment.
Annie shared that participating in IYEN was a meaningful experience in her academic journey.
“This competition was not just about winning; it was a journey of growth. I learned how to lead a cross-university team with various dynamics, from unexpected changes in team members to task distribution. It made me realize that opportunities are real and open to anyone who dares to take them,” she said.
The Rector of UMPWR, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Teguh Wibowo, M.Pd., expressed his appreciation for this achievement.
“Annie’s accomplishment is clear evidence that UMPWR students are capable of competing globally. This aligns with our vision to produce outstanding graduates with international competitiveness and an entrepreneurial spirit. We hope this achievement inspires other students to step forward and excel on the global stage,” he stated.
Similarly, the Head of the Management Study Program, Dr. Hardin, S.P., M.M., also expressed his pride.
“This achievement shows that UMPWR Management students not only excel academically but are also capable of delivering innovative solutions with real societal impact. WarungRise is a concrete example of how creative ideas can address real-world challenges,” he explained.
This achievement further strengthens UMPWR’s commitment to encouraging students to actively participate in international programs, develop innovation, and contribute meaningfully to sustainable development.
