Undana Kupang Graduates 1,421 Students, NTT Governor Highlights AI Use

A total of 1,421 graduates of Nusa Cendana University (Undana) Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), were officially confirmed at the Second Period Graduation Ceremony of 2026 at the Grha Cendana Building on Tuesday (30/6/2026). In his address, NTT Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena highlighted the use of artificial intelligence (AI). He stated that the use of AI must not eliminate human values. Melki, as he is known, explained that AI is an extraordinary technology that can accelerate development in various sectors, from health and education to agriculture and public services. “AI is an extraordinary tool. AI can assist research, accelerate data analysis, improve public services, support the worlds of health, education, and agriculture, and even open up new business opportunities,” Laka Lena explained. “However, no matter how powerful AI is, it will never replace the human values of integrity, empathy, and wisdom possessed by humans.” To this end, Melki invited all Undana graduates to use AI wisely. “I invite all Undana graduates to use AI wisely, responsibly, and ethically,” said the Golkar Party politician. Melki also stated that graduation is the beginning of service, not the end of the struggle. He encouraged the 1,421 graduates to direct their knowledge towards eradicating poverty in NTT, namely through innovation, strengthening MSMEs, and village assistance via the One Village One Product (OVOP) programme. Meanwhile, Undana Rector Jefri Bale reminded that AI is merely an imitation of intelligence. The ease of access provided by AI could cause students to lose their critical thinking abilities. “The convenience offered by AI can make the younger generation lose their critical thinking skills. Therefore, through the NTT Provincial Government, AI supports the launch of Siber Sehat NTT as an effort to face the threat of mental degradation due to the instant use of technology,” Jefri said. He also advised graduates to use artificial intelligence, or AI, as a tool. “Use artificial intelligence only as a tool, but use common sense as the main driver to build the land of Flobamorata,” Jefri concluded.