Addressing the Need for Improved Journal Management

The collaboration between the two institutions was sparked by the recognition of the growing importance of academic journals in today's knowledge-driven society. IAKN Kupang, like many other academic institutions, faced challenges in effectively managing its journals, including the selection of manuscripts, the review process, publication, and distribution. The lack of sufficient skills and knowledge in operating the OJS platform further hindered the institution's ability to produce high-quality scholarly publications.

Training and Capacity Building

To address these challenges, Undiksha, with its expertise in journal management and the use of OJS, conducted a comprehensive training program for IAKN Kupang's faculty and staff. The training covered a wide range of topics, including:

• Introduction to academic journals: This module provided a foundational understanding of the role of academic journals in disseminating research findings and contributing to the advancement of knowledge.
• Journal management: Participants learned about the various stages of the journal publication process, from manuscript submission to final publication.
• Open Journal System (OJS): The training focused on the practical aspects of using OJS to manage and publish journals, including features such as manuscript submission, peer review, and publication.
• Journal indexing and accreditation: Participants were informed about the importance of indexing journals in reputable databases and the criteria for journal accreditation.

Positive Outcomes and Future Prospects

The training program has had a positive impact on the participants' knowledge and skills in journal management. A pre-test and post-test assessment revealed a significant improvement in participants' understanding of the various aspects of journal management. Additionally, the participants expressed their satisfaction with the training and indicated that they would apply the knowledge gained to improve the quality of their institution's journals.

As a result of this collaboration, IAKN Kupang is now better equipped to manage its journals more effectively and efficiently. The institution aims to increase the number of high-quality publications and improve the visibility of its research.

Alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

This initiative aligns with several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• SDG 4: Quality Education: By improving the quality of academic publications, this initiative contributes to the goal of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.
• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure: The use of digital tools such as OJS supports innovation and infrastructure development in the field of academic publishing.
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals: The collaboration between Undiksha and IAKN Kupang is a prime example of partnerships for the goals, demonstrating the power of collaboration to achieve sustainable development.

Conclusion

The successful implementation of the journal management training program at IAKN Kupang is a testament to the importance of collaboration and capacity building in the academic community. By empowering faculty and staff with the necessary skills, this initiative has laid the foundation for the production of high-quality research and the dissemination of knowledge. As IAKN Kupang continues to develop its research capabilities, it is expected to make significant contributions to the field of religious studies and education.