A bright spot was born. There, Dr Didi Saputra Ramang, Sp.O.T., FICS began a journey that would bring him fame and meaning. The city, located on the easternmost tip of Sulawesi, witnessed the beginning of a child’s big dreams, one of which was Didi’s. From an early age, Didi showed a keen interest in various fields. In schools in Kendari City, he not only showed his love for sports, but also his natural talent in science. The National Physics Olympiad became his first stage, where he achieved success by reaching the finals in 2003 at the junior high school level in Balikpapan and repeating it again at the high school level in Semarang in 2006. Didi has held on tightly to his big dream. In the developing city of Kendari, at the eastern tip of Sulawesi, he has planted a firm determination to carve out his own path to success. Here, amid limited resources and an environment that is not always friendly, Didi hones his perseverance. Education is not just a lesson, but a stage on which to reach for the sky of dreams.
Parents’ Prayers and Blessings
Behind every step of his journey, Didi has always been supported by the prayers of his mother and late father in achieving his dream of becoming a doctor. He relies on the strength and blessings of his loved ones. Didi Saputra Ramang, a story of struggle, perseverance, and faith in becoming a doctor. This long journey teaches us that with unwavering determination, tireless hard work, resilience in the face of failure, and unceasing prayers to Allah, his big dream can be realised. Every step is part of the journey towards the pinnacle of success, filled with life’s wisdom. Didi’s motivation to pursue higher education, despite being from a rural area, stems from the belief that higher education can change a family’s fate. According to Didi, becoming a doctor and having a higher education are crucial factors that transform everything. It is not about money or status, but about higher education.
Student Life
Every semester brings new challenges. Piling assignments, difficult exams, and the pressure to always perform well are all part of Didi’s daily life. However, he never gives up. He sees every difficulty as an opportunity to learn and grow. “I am here to achieve my dreams, not to give up in the face of adversity,” he tells himself whenever he feels discouraged. In addition to his studies, Didi is also active in various campus activities. He joined a student organisation, participated in social activities, and volunteered at a local health clinic. One day, in the middle of a busy semester, Didi got an internship opportunity at a well-known hospital in Jakarta. This experience gave him direct insight into the real world of medicine. At the hospital, Didi worked under the guidance of experienced doctors who patiently taught him various clinical skills. In the brightly lit lecture hall, a tense atmosphere filled the air as Didi and several other medical students sat around a simulated patient table. In the initially tense classroom atmosphere, Didi felt the weight on his shoulders ease slightly. The discussion not only provided valuable experience in diagnosing complex clinical cases but also strengthened his resolve to become a doctor capable of making a real contribution to the medical world.
His involvement in academic and sports competitions
During his studies at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Didi not only devoted himself to his medical studies, but also found himself involved in challenging academic competitions and research. In addition to participating in various competitions, he won awards in research, including third place in the 2010 FKUI Best Research Competition.
The following year, he won second place with his research on the clinical scoring system for tuberculosis, demonstrating his ability to apply science to advance medical practice. However, that was not all; his achievements in sports also adorned his story, from becoming a semi-finalist in the 2017 Interna Cup Football Championship to winning runner-up in the 2019 Interna Cup Badminton Championship. During his university years, Didi not only attended lectures and clinical practice but also actively participated in courses, seminars, and served as a speaker at various scientific forums. With unwavering determination, hard work, and unshakable faith, Didi believes that every dream can be realised with the grace and assistance of Allah SWT.
Scholarships: A Turning Point to the Future
Amidst his busy schedule at the faculty, Didi found an important announcement on campus. There was an announcement about scholarship selection. Although he initially applied on a whim, Didi was eventually accepted. However, he realised that the Karya Salemba Empat Scholarship was very different from other scholarships. KSE not only provides financial assistance, but also creates a unique ecosystem, with a cross-campus community and a variety of very useful activities, including leadership training, entrepreneurship, and networking.
“The Karya Salemba Empat Scholarship has a very different system because they develop their own ecosystem with a cross-campus community and a variety of very useful activities. From leadership and entrepreneurship training to networking, all of this has had a huge impact on me. Alhamdulillah, KSE’s role in my journey has been very significant,” said Didi enthusiastically.
Didi woke up with burning enthusiasm. That day, he was ready to attend a face-to-face training session organised by Karya Salemba Empat, a scholarship that had provided him with a lot of assistance during his college years. Karya Salemba Empat (KSE) Scholarship. Didi arrived at the training venue, located in an auditorium at one of the faculties at the University of Indonesia. The room was already filled with other scholarship recipients from various departments and KSE partner universities. They all looked excited, chatting and getting to know each other. This training was not only attended by students from the University of Indonesia, but also from the Bogor Agricultural University (IPB), Padjadjaran University (UNPAD), and the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB).
Shortly afterwards, the event began. The moderator introduced the first speaker, Mrs Mien Uno. The mother of Sandiaga Uno often shared her knowledge, motivation and inspiration for success at KSE activities with the Mien R. Uno Foundation at that time. After the motivational session, it was the turn of the second speaker, a human resources expert from a large company, who spoke about preparing to enter the world of work. Didi felt very inspired by the training that day. He realised that the journey into the world of work was indeed full of challenges, but with motivation, thorough preparation, and support from those around him, he was confident he could face whatever lay ahead.
When the training ended, Didi returned home with renewed enthusiasm. As a recipient of the Student Achievement Programme from KSE Scholarships, which differs from the regular programme, Didi received several valuable additional benefits. In addition to monthly living expenses, he also received subsidies to attend international seminars or conferences, thesis writing costs, and tuition assistance. When the training ended, Didi returned home with renewed enthusiasm. As a recipient of the Student Achievement Programme from the KSE Scholarship, which differs from the regular programme, Didi received several valuable additional benefits. In addition to monthly living expenses, he also received subsidies to attend international seminars or conferences, thesis writing costs, and tuition assistance.
Mental Training & Leadership
The experience of being a recipient of the KSE Scholarship did not stop at face-to-face meetings and the Student Achievement Programme. Amidst the never-ending hustle and bustle of Jakarta, Didi found himself called to embark on a new adventure at Rindam Jaya in the BISMA Leadership Camp programme. This training was organised by KSE with support from Indofood and trainers from Rindam Jaya. This training was not merely a physical and mental test, but also a rare and special experience for Didi. Only those selected from among KSE scholarship recipients from 15 state universities (PTN) had the opportunity to participate in this experience.
KSE Scholarship, with all its wisdom and experience in supporting sustainable national development, particularly in education, contributes profound insights into the true meaning of defending the country. Amidst a series of intense training sessions, Didi and his colleagues faced physical and mental challenges that tested their limits. They jumped over obstacles with unwavering determination, crossing pools with ropes while facing exhaustion and fear. During this journey, Didi not only discovered strength within himself, but also in his leadership. As platoon leader, he was responsible for leading and motivating his team members through every obstacle, forming strong and solid relationships between them. Amidst cries of exhaustion and laughter of camaraderie, Didi built close relationships with his fellow participants, getting to know their different characters and backgrounds. The training not only honed Didi’s leadership skills but also shaped his character deeply.
After University, Moving Forward
Receiving a scholarship from Karya Salemba Empat is not just about financial support. For me, KSE has given me much more than that. All of this has greatly benefited my career development as a doctor.
One day, in the middle of a busy semester, Didi got an internship opportunity at a well-known hospital in Jakarta. This experience gave him direct insight into the real world of medicine.
Long nights at the hospital often left her exhausted, but seeing the smiles of recovered patients gave her immeasurable satisfaction. “This is why I chose this path,” she thought with a smile.
In his final year of university, Didi faced one of his biggest challenges: the final exams that would determine whether he graduated. The weeks leading up to the exam were filled with intensive studying and tireless preparation. Despite this, Didi always tried to maintain his balance, taking time to rest and look after his mental health. The day of the exam arrived, and Didi faced the questions with confidence. All his efforts and hard work over the years came together as he wrote answer after answer.
Frontline Health Workers in Kendari
After completing his bachelor’s degree, Didi took a bold step by serving in his hometown, Kendari City. For four years, he worked as a general practitioner at the Kendari City Regional General Hospital, experiencing every challenge and success in managing public health in an area that is perhaps better known for its natural beauty than its health infrastructure.
For Didi, this dedication has a profound meaning. “First of all, I am grateful to be a doctor because doctors play a very strategic role in the progress of this nation,” he said proudly.
Didi also realises that there are currently many hotly debated global issues, such as food security, climate change and even international conflicts. In his opinion, doctors have a broad role and can contribute in various fields related to these issues.
Didi is confident about his own friends at KSE, “Whatever their expertise, I believe that dedication can be interpreted in all fields, not just their expertise. That expertise can be applied to other fields,” Didi shared with his fellow KSE alumni.
Healthcare Challenges
Of course, the first priority in healthcare is to provide the best possible service based on scientific principles and accessible to all segments of society. Didi wants his services to be accessible to everyone, not just those who are financially capable, but also those who are less fortunate, so that they too can benefit from the services he provides, which will undoubtedly be beneficial to the community as a whole.
Specialist orthopaedic training was a calling that never faded in Didi’s life. The five years he spent pursuing this dream were not easy. Every step of the way was filled with immense sacrifice, both physically and mentally, amidst countless challenges and examinations. During his specialist training, Didi was also actively involved in various community service activities, which enriched his experience and deepened his understanding of the importance of healthcare services in emergency situations.
He joined the Indonesian Hajj Health Team Embarkation UPG Kloter 21 in 2016, and was involved in the Medical Team in responding to the tsunami, earthquake, and liquefaction disaster in Palu-Donggala in 2018 at RSCM. Didi sees this dedication as a form of his broader contribution in utilising his expertise and knowledge for the benefit of the wider community. Every experience he has gained, both in education and service, has shaped him into a highly committed professional who always strives to contribute and give his best in his field.
Returning to Serve in My Hometown
After completing his specialist education, Didi decided to serve in his hometown of Kendari, his native region. With burning enthusiasm, he successfully earned his international surgeon title, adding a new entry to his portfolio of qualifications. He believes that quality healthcare should be available and accessible to everyone, regardless of geographical location. With his proven knowledge and skills, Didi is ready to apply his orthopaedic expertise to provide the best possible care for the people of his hometown.
For Didi, serving in his hometown has a profound meaning. It is not only about providing medical treatment and care, but also about supporting the overall health and well-being of the community.
Currently, Didi works at Kendari City Hospital as an orthopaedic and traumatology specialist. Despite dedicating himself to his hometown, Didi maintains high standards of professionalism in his practice. Communication is no longer a barrier, even when Didi returns to his region. In the consultation process between general practitioners and specialists, technology such as WhatsApp plays a crucial role in facilitating effective communication and coordination.
With WhatsApp and other communication technologies, Didi can quickly communicate with general practitioners or other medical teams to consult on patient diagnoses or treatments, as well as to discuss the best treatment strategies. Didi sees technology as an invaluable tool for improving healthcare services in rural areas, without compromising quality or connections with the national network of doctors.
In addition to his academic success and medical practice, Didi is also active in professional organisations such as PABOI (Indonesian Orthopaedic Surgeons Association) and IDI (Indonesian Medical Association) Kendari Branch. Didi believes that through his participation in professional organisations, he can play an active role in developing orthopaedic surgery and advancing health services in his region.
Life Goals and Principles
The guiding principles in achieving one’s dreams are the philosophical foundations that inspire and direct a person on their journey towards achieving their grand goals.
- First Principle: Active Contribution Didi’s academic journey was not merely about pursuing an academic degree, but also about making a positive impact through his research and international experiences. This is a story about how determination and aspiration shaped his path in the challenging and hopeful world of medicine. At the beginning of his academic journey as a prospective general practitioner, Didi embraced the first principle, namely the desire to contribute actively. Amidst challenges and limited resources, his dream of obtaining a degree in medicine seemed increasingly distant. However, Didi’s persistence never wavered. He began to make his mark with various scientific works that gained international attention and made his name known in academic circles. One day, when finances became a real obstacle to his continued studies at university, a piece of news changed the course of his story. With the Karya Salemba Empat Scholarship as his reason to be grateful, Didi has not only become an example of academic success, but also an inspiration for future generations who are striving to change their world through education and knowledge.
- Second Principle: Determination to Finish on Time The second principle in Didi’s journey is his determination to finish his studies on time. For Didi, graduating on time is proof of his deep commitment to his parents, who have always supported him. He is determined to return home as a general practitioner who is ready to make a real contribution to society. Didi is well aware that completing his studies on time is not just about achieving an academic degree, but also about preparing himself as best he can to face the real challenges of the medical world. During his studies, he managed his study and practicum schedule with great discipline, often sacrificing his rest and recreation time to ensure that every aspect of the curriculum was properly fulfilled. Between intense lectures, clinical practicums that required consistent attendance, and decisive exams and evaluations, Didi was also active in academic and social activities on campus. His greatest challenge may have been integrating the theory he learned with practical experience in the field. By the end of his journey, Didi not only successfully completed his studies on time but also felt prepared to face the challenges of being a general practitioner.
- Third Principle: Desire to Study Abroad However, between his ambitions and responsibilities, there is also a third principle that is no less important, namely his desire to study abroad. For Didi, this is not just about travelling far away, but an opportunity to deepen his understanding of international scientific culture. This experience is expected to bring great benefits to the advancement of medical science in Indonesia. The philosophy behind these guiding principles not only reflects Didi Ramang Saputra’s personal journey, but also inspires anyone who dreams big. They teach us that with strong determination, a commitment to contribute, and a passion for continuous learning, everyone can overcome obstacles and achieve their goals with true success.
Puncak Karier Sang Spesialis Orthopedi
Didi is also actively involved in various scientific activities and challenging competitions. His remarkable success is reflected in several of his studies published in prestigious international journals such as the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Techniques, World Journal of Surgical Oncology, and others.
One of the highlights of Didi’s academic journey was when his article entitled “An Update of Tuberculosis Spondylitis and The Holistic Management by Subroto Sapardan Total Treatment: Literature Review Study” was published in the Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology in August 2023. This article is one of 18 international scientific works that he has published, confirming his dedication to researching and contributing to the field of orthopaedics. Didi’s success in obtaining his international surgeon title has opened up many opportunities, including becoming a guest speaker at various seminars and television programmes. This has raised his profile as a recognised orthopaedic specialist. One memorable experience for Didi was when he was invited as a guest speaker on TVRI Southeast Sulawesi to discuss the topic of back pain and its solutions. During the programme, Didi shared insights on managing lower back pain, ranging from simple measures to approaches using cutting-edge technology in the fields of orthopaedics and traumatology. Didi highlighted that many people still lack information about simple things they can do to prevent lower back pain, such as lifestyle modifications.
Epilogue Reflection of Light
Didi reflected on his life journey with inspiring hopes. “First of all, I hope to be of great help to my orthopaedic patients who are experiencing problems. Then, with the experience I have gained, I want to contribute to the development of orthopaedic services in Indonesia, not only in terms of practice but also in terms of science.
Didi continued his reflection enthusiastically. “Every step in this career is part of a long journey towards making a greater contribution in the field of orthopaedics.
He emphasised, “As a professional who also serves as a reviewer for international journals, I feel I have a responsibility to constantly update my knowledge and contribute to high-quality research, such as the new surgical techniques we have published.
In every step and challenge that Didi faced, the prayers and support of his wife and children were always with him. As the head of the family, Didi prioritised harmony at home. That is why the full support of his wife and children meant so much to him in his journey as a doctor. Didi’s parents, siblings, and younger siblings have also always supported him on his journey. Didi expresses his gratitude, saying, “Thank you to my entire family and everyone who has supported and encouraged me.”
This is an inspirational message for every reader who dreams of pursuing their dreams with determination and hard work.
Didi said: Being a doctor is a source of pride for me, especially because I can help ease the burden of people who are sick. This is a gift and blessing from Allah SWT, when through the treatment we provide, I can see patients recover. Bringing healing to them is a source of happiness and pride for me. I believe that through determination and hard work, everyone can achieve their dreams, including in the field of medicine. May this story inspire and motivate anyone who is pursuing their dreams to keep trying and never give up.