UGM should set example as agent of great change

The Gajah Mada University (UGM) should become a university that is capable of setting an example by bringing about major, radical changes in the field of education, according to President Joko Widodo (Jokowi).

"I really hope that the UGM would set an example and not get trapped in the routine. The UGM can also be a model for big and radical changes in our higher education system that can address challenges in the field of science and technology and the changing times," President Jokowi remarked in a public lecture in the context of the 68th anniversary of UGM in Yogyakarta on Tuesday.

The president is keen to ensure that college work becomes more innovative and creative. Although Jokowi understands the severity of changing the educational agenda, yet he believes that it is time to change the higher education curriculum to adapt to the new technologies and culture of the "millennials."

"I understand that the agenda of change is not always a challenge. It is not easy, but I am certain that the UGM can be what I am proud of. I am proud of UGM`s demeanor, its spirit, and of UGM, my alma mater," he noted.

Hence, the president expressed hope that the UGM would set an example for the birth of new innovations in Indonesia to win the competition both in the country and the global arena.

President Jokowi is keen to see the UGM become a part of the national ecosystem in building justice for all people.

"Happy 68th birthday of UGM. Long live the UGM for the progress of our beloved country," he emphasized.

Also present at the event were First Lady Iriana Joko Widodo, Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung, Presidential Chief Staff Teten Masduki, and Governor of Yogyakarta Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X.

The event was attended by Minister of State Secretary Pratikno, who also served as chairman of the Board of Trustees of UGM; Minister of Transportation Budi Karya Sumadi; Minister of Research, Technology, and High Education M. Nasir; Police Chief Gen. Tito Karnavian; Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo; National Defense Institute Governor Agus Widjojo; and Secretary General of the Alumni Family of UGM Ari Dwipayana

Source: ANTARA