Indonesian deputy minister urges students to embrace global mindset

Speaking at the Career Development Center (CDC) Strengthening event on Wednesday, Fauzan warned that many high-tech jobs in Indonesia and worldwide are dominated by foreign workers, particularly from India.

“This happens because workers from competing countries generally have an expansive spirit and strong self-confidence to pursue careers beyond their borders, while many Indonesians are constrained by cultural concerns about leaving family behind,” he explained.

Fauzan stressed that Indonesian universities must go beyond simply producing graduates by also facilitating pathways toward international careers. “We should not just be spectators in globalization, we must be active participants,” he emphasized.

He argued that campuses should become centers for overseas employment opportunities, helping foster a culture where working abroad is seen as an honorable achievement.

“This is not easy, because it requires a global mindset,” he added.

As an example, Fauzan cited the Indonesia–Japan Nursing program he launched while serving as rector of Muhammadiyah University of Malang.

The initiative equipped students with foreign language skills early on and successfully sent hundreds of graduates abroad.

Currently, the government is implementing programs that combine study with overseas work placements, particularly for students affected by natural disasters in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra.

These students receive intensive language training, online coursework, and support to work in Japan.

“First, they will not have to stop their studies, and second, they can support their families because they are working,” Fauzan said.

Translator: Sean, Kenzu