In recent weeks, several media outlets have reported a decline in young people’s interest in science, particularly physics.
Some news articles have highlighted the decreasing enthusiasm for science among students.
For academics working in the field, this situation signals a red flag that requires attention from many parties. Without a strong understanding of science, a nation may find it challenging to compete in the current technological era.
Dr. Wiwit Suryanto, Vice Dean for Research and Cooperation at UGM’s Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA UGM), pointed out that many factors, including less engaging teaching methods, contribute to students’ waning interest in science.
He noted that the current education system still focuses on rote memorization of formulas and theories without offering sufficient exploratory experiences.
“On top of that, the lack of experiments and hands-on practice makes science feel abstract and difficult to understand,” said Dr. Suryanto Saturday (Feb. 22).
He also acknowledged that this declining interest in science is partly due to the perception that science does not intersect with everyday life.
Many students even question the usefulness of studying science, as it is rarely linked to the everyday technology they use, such as smartphones, the internet, or electric vehicles.
Additionally, science is often considered difficult and reserved only for geniuses.
“The inability to see the direct benefits of science causes them to lose motivation to learn it. Many students are intimidated by symbols, numbers, and complex mathematical equations. The narrative that only geniuses can understand makes many students give up before they even try,” he explained.
Yet, he mentioned that Michael Faraday, the father of electromagnetism, was neither a math nor theoretical physics expert.
He simply enjoyed tinkering with experimental tools in the lab. The lack of inspirational figures in the field of science also contributes to the decline in young people’s interest in studying science.
“Many people don’t know who Michael Faraday is. Science is rarely promoted in popular media, while business, arts, and entertainment professions receive much more attention. As a result, students have fewer scientist or innovator role models to inspire them. Perhaps during my time, I idolized Pak Habibie, a great technocrat. It seems we need more scientific figures often showcased in the media,” Dr. Suryanto said.
He further explained that if young people continue to lose interest in science, it will have long-term consequences for society and the nation.
As a large nation, Indonesia will remain dependent on foreign technology.
Without competent scientists and engineers, Indonesia will merely be a technology consumer, not a producer.
“The country will increasingly rely on imported technology, which can hinder national independence and competitiveness,” he added.
In today’s competitive world, countries like China, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, and the United States are investing heavily in science and technology research.
If Indonesian youth are not interested in science, the country will fall further behind in global competition.
This situation may weaken national competitiveness and result in a lack of innovation to solve national issues like the energy crisis, climate change, food security, and natural disaster mitigation.
“Without young scientists and researchers, it will be difficult for Indonesia to find innovative solutions to these problems,” he noted.
Dr. Suryanto also assessed that the current curriculum does not encourage students to develop a keen interest in science.
He pointed out several weaknesses in Indonesia’s education system in attracting students to science.
Besides being too focused on memorization and theory, learning is still centered on formulas and definitions rather than exploration and problem-solving.
There is a lack of interactive and experimental approaches. Many schools’ science laboratories are inadequate, depriving students of the opportunity to conduct experiments firsthand.
“Exams are still based on rote learning rather than conceptual understanding. The current exam model prioritizes memorization over creativity and in-depth comprehension,” he explained.
Reflecting on this situation, Dr. Suryanto suggested that improving students’ interest in learning and deepening their knowledge of science should be a future challenge for Indonesia.
He offered several solutions to increase students’ interest in science, such as making science lessons mandatory in schools and shifting teaching methods from rote learning to exploration.
Learning should be more experiment-based, involve real-world projects, and use digital technology like simulations, augmented reality, and interactive coding.
It would also help show students the relevance of science to everyday life, especially by connecting science lessons with the modern technology they use.
Occasionally, visits to industries and collaborations with tech companies could be arranged.
“Where possible, we should also present role models to inspire students, such as successful Indonesian scientists and innovators in science and technology. Hosting mentorship programs and inspirational seminars on careers in science, along with curriculum improvements and other initiatives, could also help,” he concluded.
Author: Agung Nugroho
Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya
Photo: Freepik