The Rector of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Professor Ova Emilia, remarked that the new government, led by President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, faces a significant challenge in creating high-quality and competitive human resources.
Persistent gaps in skills, educational access, workforce distribution, and technology adaptation are among the pressing issues that need to be addressed.
“We are aware that skill gaps, educational access, workforce distribution, and technology adaptation remain hurdles for this nation in achieving high-quality and competitive human resources,” the rector stated in her address at the Graduation Ceremony on Thursday (Oct. 24) at Grha Sabha Pramana.
The rector emphasized that strengthening technological innovation and human resource development should be a governmental priority to support economic growth, defense enhancement, and a clean, transparent government, which are key focuses of Prabowo and Gibran’s leadership.
She pointed out that higher education institutions play a significant role in advancing human resource quality.
“Universities serve as a critical component in enhancing the quality of future human resources,” she stated.
On this occasion, the rector expressed her hope that the current national leadership would bring Indonesia equitable prosperity.
“Congratulations on taking on the responsibility of leading Indonesia. May this leadership period bring equitable prosperity to the nation,” she said.
The rector also thanked the previous President and Vice President for their service in advancing Indonesia’s development.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the President and Vice President of the 2019-2024 term for their significant contributions during their leadership,” she added.
Dr. Ari Dwipayana, Secretary General of the Kagama Central Management, reminded the graduates to enhance their competencies continuously amid rapid technological change.
“We must ask ourselves if the knowledge we have gained is enough to face future dynamics. The mindset of ‘eling,’ or being aware and vigilant, is crucial for each learner. This awareness is key to driving continuous self-improvement,” he conveyed.
He further noted that the ongoing technological revolution demands constant vigilance. Once deemed essential, many skills have become obsolete due to advancements in artificial intelligence.
Today’s job market is highly competitive, with limited opportunities and many job seekers.
“We must not only be surprised but also prepared and proactive. Our responsibility is to ready ourselves and our ecosystem for the industrial revolution so as not to be swept away by disruptive waves,” Dr. Dwipayana added.
Gusmon Sidik, a graduate of the Agricultural Industrial Technology Master’s program at the Faculty of Agricultural Technology, delivered a speech on behalf of all graduates.
He immensely thanked the entire UGM academic community for their exceptional support. Reflecting on his journey, Sidik shared that pursuing a postgraduate degree at UGM was a profoundly rewarding experience.
He acknowledged the hard work of the faculty and the unyielding support and prayers of family members.
“Today is not only our day but also a day for them,” he remarked.
He noted that completing a postgraduate program resulted from continuous effort and determination. Sidik reminded the graduates that while their student responsibilities have ended, a new duty lies in applying their knowledge.
He encouraged his peers to carry UGM’s good name forward, demonstrating integrity in healthy competition.
“Congratulations on this victory. Continue to grow strong roots and reach new heights,” Sidik concluded.
Author: Lintang
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Photographer: Firsto