Head of the Senate of FEM IPB University, Dr Bayu Krisnamurti, Gives a Public Lecture in Australia

“Today’s students are future leaders” is not just a slogan but a serious thing to prepare for. Data shows Indonesia will become the world’s fifth power by 2045, and those currently studying there will lead a Golden Indonesia in 2045.

This was revealed in a public lecture delivered by the Head of the Academic Senate of the Faculty of Economics and Management (FEM) at IPB University, Dr Bayu Krisnamurti, in front of Indonesian students at the Australian National University (ANU), (6/3). The event, which took place at Marie Reay TC, 6th floor of the ANU campus, was a series of welcoming new students organized by the Australian Indonesian Student Association (PPIA)-ANU.

The public lecture with the theme “Youth Contribution to Indonesia’s Vision 2045” was attended by approximately 180 students, consisting of S1, S2, and S3 students. On the occasion, Dr Bayu Krisnamurti, who was also the Deputy Minister of Trade of the Republic of Indonesia in 2011–2014, explained that in 2045, Indonesia’s population will be 320 million. Its per capita income is USD 20,000 per year, and Indonesia’s gross domestic product (GDP) is estimated to be in the top 5 in the world.

“Indonesia is sovereign, developed, just, and prosperous in 2045. It must be supported by science, technology, research, innovation, and creativity. You get a very expensive opportunity to study at a prestigious place like this. But the most important thing is that later you can bring what you get here to advance Indonesia. Science-based policy development is not just ‘the point’, you must be able to do it, you must be ready to lead the future,” explained Dr Bayu.

Meanwhile, the Education and Culture Attaché (Atdikbud) of the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia (KBRI) in Canberra, Prof Mukhamad Najib, said that this year there was an increase in the number of Indonesian students in Australia. However, the number of Indonesian students is still far below China and India, even far below Nepal.

“This year, Indonesian students in Australia are 20,350, while those in China and India are each above 100,000. Nepali students in Australia are much higher than those in Indonesia, which are 71 thousand. Hopefully you can be an attraction and help Indonesian students get more opportunities to study here,” said the lecturer at the Department of Management at IPB University.

He hopes that Indonesian students can participate in introducing Indonesian culture to Australian society, build relationships, and bring Indonesia and Australia closer. “There are currently 10 public schools and seven private schools in Canberra that teach Indonesian. I hope that students can help become volunteers to intensify the promotion of Indonesia in schools so that students’ interest in learning Indonesian increases,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, according to the President of the ANU Indonesian Student Association (ANUISA), Hasyyati Yusrina, this event aims to help new students get to know and adapt to campus faster. Hasy also invites new students to be active in activities organized by ANUISA.

“Being a member of ANUISA has many benefits. We can help each other if there are difficulties, and we can also develop networks with international students. And last but not least, with the ANNISA membership card, students can get discounts if they shop or eat at several shops and restaurants,” concluded the President of ANUISA. (*/Zul) (IAAS/MZS)