IPB University Rector Gives Inspirational Message to Jatayu Harsakala: Students Must Be Leaders of Change
In an era of rapid change, it is no longer enough for students to rely solely on knowledge. They must be able to adapt, innovate, and lead change to face technological challenges and global climate change.
This firm message was conveyed by Rector Prof Arif Satria, to more than 8.000 new students of IPB University batch 62, both Bachelor (S1) and Applied Bachelor (D4) programs in the New Student Campus Introduction Period (MPKMB) event, on (8/11-12).
“Every year the skill needs change. Therefore, we must become lifelong learners,” he said.
He explained that technological developments, especially artificial intelligence (AI), will shift many traditional roles. In addition to AI skills and digital skills, green skills are also developing, the ability to manage natural resources efficiently and environmentally friendly.
“Every one degree Celsius increase in global temperature can reduce rice production by 10-20 percent. In fact, if climate change is not anticipated, coffee could become extinct by 2080,” he added.
According to him, the Society 5.0 era puts environmental and humanitarian issues at the center of attention. Many large companies are looking for social, humanitarian and environmental experts. “We must lead the change and lead the future,” he said.
Prof Arif also conveyed three main messages for new students of batch 62 ‘Jatayu Harsakala’. First, to be an inspiring person: a person who is able to move others through ideas, leadership, and work.
“The characteristics of an inspiring person are vision, positive mindset, passion for learning, persistence, courage, and empathy,” he said.
Second, having a growth mindset. According to him, students must be able to see failure as a learning opportunity, not a limit. “Problems and failures will always exist, but stopping from failure is the biggest mistake. True learners are those who are able to take lessons from anyone and anywhere,” he said.
The third message is to be innovative. Students are required to have high curiosity, think creatively, dare to take risks, focus on future practice, and have adaptability. “Everyone can go to the top, but staying at the top is a matter of character,” said the Rector passionately.
For new students, this motivation means a lot. As stated by Rizki, a new student participant of MPKMB, “This motivation really made me realize that in the end character is very important in this life.”
In closing, Prof Arif explained the vision of IPB University as an Innopreneur University, which combines research and innovation for business (techno-preneurship) and social (socio-preneurship) interests.
“IPB University prepares an ecosystem of education, research, and entrepreneurship development for students since the beginning of the lecture, including through Talent Mapping, 7 Habits training, business mentoring, and Startup School,” he concluded. (dr) (IAAS/KQA)
