IPB University Hosts BEM SI National Conference 2025, Rector Orders Two Strategic Roles of Students
IPB University was asked to host the XVIII National Conference of the Student Executive Board of Indonesia (BEM SI). At the opening held at IPB Dramaga Campus (6/26), Rector of IPB University, Prof Arif Satria, welcomed the presence of students as the next generation and future leaders of the nation.
For the Rector, the National Conference of BEM SI is an important momentum to consolidate and determine the direction of the student movement in the future. According to him, today’s student movement must play a role in two main aspects: democracy and technocracy.
“Students must not only be able to lead others, but must also be able to lead change and the future. Lead change and lead the future are things that must be owned by students today,” said Prof Arif.
He added that the role of technocracy requires students to master innovation, technology, and skills that are relevant to the dynamics of the times. On the other hand, students must also actively oversee the democratic process as part of their contribution to the nation.
Prof Arif also emphasized the importance of student readiness in facing the industrial revolution 4.0 and 5.0, which is characterized by rapid technological development. “Without the power of innovation and technology, it will be difficult for Indonesia to become a great nation,” he explained.
Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology (Mendiktisaintek), Prof Brian Yuliarto, who attended the meeting, reminded students of the importance of scientific culture as a strong foundation for the nation’s future.
“Industrial development and development in the future depend heavily on the mastery of knowledge, technology, research and innovation. Therefore, students need to build a strong foundation through scientific culture such as reading, mastering technology, and taking lectures seriously,” he said.
Prof Brian also highlighted the challenges of the presence of artificial intelligence (AI) technology which, if not managed properly, can hinder the growth of the intellectual capacity of the younger generation. According to him, students need to have a mature understanding so as not to take the wrong step and be able to take a strategic role.
“Students in the future must become locomotives of superior human resources (HR) to support industrial development, downstreaming, and other strategic sectors,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, Minister of Agriculture, Dr Andi Amran Sulaiman, also emphasized the important role of the younger generation, including millennials and gen Z, in maintaining the sustainability of the government’s strategic programs. As the successor to the nation’s leadership, students need to understand the direction of policies, priority programs, and the national strategic agenda.
“These are our younger siblings, the young generation, generation Z. They are the future of the nation. We have to take care of them, educate them, and keep sharing so that they know the journey of the government,” said Minister Amran.
Understanding the policy, he added, will prepare students to continue the relay of national leadership in the future. “Our children will replace us later. So we must take care of them together,” he said. (AS) (IAAS/NRA)
