Deputy Minister of Finance of the Republic of Indonesia, Professor Anggito Abimanyu, delivered an inspiring talk to more than 1,900 new students participating in Pionir Permadani, the UGM Vocational College (SV UGM) orientation, on Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, at Grha Sabha Pramana.
As a professor at the Department of Economics and Business, SV UGM, he shared various tips and strategies for becoming an outstanding and accomplished student and engaged in dialogue to understand young people’s perspectives.
Deputy Minister Abimanyu emphasized that campus life is not only about acquiring knowledge but also about personal growth and development.
He said that the university environment provides numerous avenues for student creativity and innovation through both facilities and communities.
Therefore, as students, one must be bold in trying new things and embrace the learning process that comes with it.
“Do not be afraid to fail, because those who have never failed are simply those who never dared to step forward,” he stated
Being admitted to a prestigious institution like UGM is truly a blessing, he added.
The best opportunities do not always come at the same time, so it is crucial for students to keep seeking and seizing every chance that comes their way.
He used this point to spark dialogue among the students.
According to him, young people are naturally exploratory and full of idealism; they need guidance to channel their creativity into meaningful work and contributions to the nation.
“Never forget to learn. Always stay thirsty for knowledge. That’s where you will find interesting things,” Deputy Minister Abimanyu encouraged.
He hopes that the notion of “learning” will not be perceived merely as an obligatory burden during one’s studies.
On the contrary, through learning, students can discover their identity and find inspiration that will guide them toward their purpose after graduation.
He stressed that learning happens not only in the classroom, interacting, understanding one’s surroundings, and engaging in dialogue are also forms of learning.
Deputy Minister Abimanyu also reminded the students that as they journey through university life, many challenges will arise.
In those moments, remember that every student faces similar struggles.
“You don’t need to feel alone, because there will always be fellow companions around. Young people like yourselves can better understand problems that others may not,” he explained.
When speaking with reporters, Deputy Minister Abimanyu expressed his hope that SV UGM becomes a center for hands-on, implementative learning for its students.
He said he has always supported the advancement of vocational education, including applied research that is highly needed.
He stressed that implementative research is just as important as fundamental research and is often the most effective route to downstream application.
“Of course, we also hope that you, dear students, will grow within that environment,” he said
Pionir Permadani at SV UGM delivered a valuable message to the new students this time.
The long-sought moment of entering the “blue campus” is over, but the real journey as students has just begun.
Being a student does not merely mean being a learner.
Many opportunities await those who wish to become agents of change, sensitive to their environment, socially aware, and capable of creating innovations that are both contributive and impactful.
Author: Tasya
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna
Photographer: Firsto Adi