IPB University Launches the CERDAS PeKA Outlet, Encouraging Students to Make Smart Transactions in the Digital Age
IPB University, together with Bank Indonesia (BI), Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI), and the Indonesian National Bank Association (Perbanas), launched the CERDAS PeKA Outlet on the IPB Dramaga Campus in Bogor on (9/2).
This center serves as an educational space for students to improve their literacy and awareness regarding consumer protection, particularly in addressing the risks of digital transactions.
IPB University’s Vice Rector for Education and Student Affairs, Prof Deni Noviana, stated during the inauguration ceremony that technological advancements have brought students closer to various digital services, ranging from learning and communication to shopping and financial transactions.
On the other hand, this convenience also comes with various risks, such as fraud, scams, and digital deception. “It is not enough for students to simply be users of technology; they must also be smart, critical users who are capable of protecting themselves,” he said.
The CERDAS PeKA booth is part of a consumer protection education initiative that conveys three key messages, namely Care, Recognize, and Report. Students are encouraged to care about their own safety and that of others, to recognize risks before making transactions, and to report issues through the appropriate channels.
The launch event also featured a talk show discussing financial literacy and consumer protection. One of the speakers, Ghita Argasasmita, CFP, Senior Consultant at Zapfinance, shared several tips for students on managing their finances.
She encouraged students to start tracking their expenses, categorizing their money into needs (living), wants (playing), and savings, and to apply the principle of mindful spending.
According to her, simple habits like taking a moment to pause before making an online purchase can help students distinguish between needs and wants. “That way, financial decisions aren’t based solely on promotions or momentary impulses,” she said.
Meanwhile, Nurdiana Habibie, Senior Vice President of Customer Care at BSI, encouraged students to build sound financial habits early on. Financial management isn’t just about money, it can also support one’s social and spiritual life.
She also introduced various financial services available to students, including savings accounts, investments, e-wallets, and money market mutual funds.
On the same occasion, Bank Indonesia Deputy Director One Yusril Fikar reminded students to exercise greater caution when conducting digital transactions. According to him, the advancement of digitalization makes life easier for the public, but at the same time also presents new risks that need to be understood.
“If in doubt, stop first,” was one of the messages conveyed to students, urging them not to rush into decisions when encountering suspicious transactions or offers.
Through the CERDAS PeKA Booth, IPB University hopes students will have a space to ask questions, discuss issues, and obtain information regarding consumer protection. This booth is also expected to become part of IPB University’s ecosystem in equipping students so they are not only academically excellent but also able to make wise and responsible decisions in the digital age. (Ez) (IAAS/HNY)
