Yusril: Indonesia Needs Young Generation to Utilise Competencies for National Development
The Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Correctional Affairs, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, has emphasised that Indonesia requires a young generation capable of connecting their competencies with the interests of society and national development.
Delivering an academic oration at the 37th graduation ceremony of the University of Bangka Belitim (UBB) on Monday, Yusril stated that Indonesia needs more than just skilled youth, particularly amidst the rapid global changes driven by information technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI). He noted that while technology can accelerate work, it cannot replace moral judgement, responsibility, integrity, and compassion for others. Therefore, amidst the advancement of AI, character and purpose remain the ultimate determinants of the future.
Yusril also reminded the younger generation that their current challenge is no longer merely about accessing information, but rather how to select and ensure that the information used is accurate and trustworthy. In this context, he noted that critical thinking, digital literacy, integrity, collaboration, adaptation, and innovation are essential competencies that must continue to be developed. Consequently, the Coordinating Minister encouraged the youth to use knowledge, competence, and integrity as their primary assets in providing real contributions to the community, nation, and state.
He reminded graduates that graduation is not the finish line of their educational journey, but rather the beginning of their entry into the real world, which brings greater responsibilities, challenges, and uncertainties. He argued that academic degrees and diplomas are insufficient on their own; the knowledge gained during education must be translated into the ability to think logically, distinguish fact from prejudice, seek solutions, and address the real problems faced by society.
“Graduation is not the finish line. Graduation marks the end of one stage of education and the beginning of the obligation to answer real problems as a scholar,” Yusril stated. He emphasised that a degree is a mandate to think and be responsible, and that knowledge must be used for the benefit of the people and the nation. Furthermore, he urged graduates not to limit their ambitions based on their regional origins, noting that life experiences shape one’s way of thinking and forge leadership character.
Yusril also highlighted the importance of integrity as the foundation for building leadership and national progress. He argued that while education provides the necessary skills, such knowledge must be accompanied by responsibility, ethics, and honesty, as integrity builds the trust necessary for leadership.
Meanwhile, the Rector of the University of Bangka Belitung, Ibrahim, also provided motivation to the graduates, urging them not to give up when facing life’s challenges. He encouraged them to view obstacles as part of the process of self-maturation and reminded them to honour the sacrifices and support of their parents throughout their educational journey.