Source: Untar Public Relations – SS
The spirit of patriotism and love for the nation in the digital era became the central message delivered by Rector of Untar Prof. Dr. Ir. Agustinus Purna Irawan, M.T., M.M., I.P.U., ASEAN Eng., during the ceremony commemorating the 79th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia on Saturday (17/8/2024) at Untar Campus II.
The ceremony marked the culmination of the 2024 Introduction to Campus Life for New Students (PKKMB) program, which had been held since Wednesday (14/8/2024). The program, aimed at instilling nationalism and a spirit of patriotism among students, was organized in collaboration with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), and local government authorities.
In addition to being attended by approximately 3,000 new students and members of the academic community, the ceremony also involved personnel from the West Jakarta Military District Command (Kodim 0503), Tanjung Duren Police Sector, Grogol Petamburan District, and the Tomang and Tanjung Duren subdistrict administrations.
TNI and Polri Personnel During Untar’s 79th Independence Day Commemoration Ceremony // Doc: Untar Public Relations – SS
Serving as the Ceremony Inspector, the Untar Rector delivered the official message of the Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia, Nadiem Anwar Makarim, who highlighted the importance of the spirit of cooperation (gotong royong) in achieving independence and advancing education and culture.
In his message, the Minister invited all elements of society to continue supporting the Merdeka Belajar movement, which has brought about significant positive changes in Indonesia’s education system.
“On this meaningful day, I would like to remind us all that independence would not have been achieved without collective struggle and cooperation. Likewise, our aspiration to advance education and culture can only be realized through the same spirit of togetherness,” he stated.
The Minister also highlighted various achievements made over the past five years, including the implementation of the Merdeka Belajar curriculum and digital transformation initiatives that have contributed to improving the quality of education in Indonesia.
“The Merdeka Belajar movement is only the beginning and is still far from perfect. Let us continue to strengthen our determination and collective efforts to bring Indonesia into the future,” he added.
Untar Rector Delivering the Official Message of the Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology // Doc: Untar Public Relations – SS
In line with the Minister’s message, the Untar Rector underscored the importance of patriotism and love for the nation as essential values in the digital age.
“In this digital era, the spirit of patriotism and love for the nation must be demonstrated not only through academic achievement but also through strong collaboration and mutual cooperation. Technology offers tremendous benefits when used wisely, including the ability to create innovative works more efficiently. Success is ultimately supported by solid collaboration and teamwork,” he said.
The Rector also expressed his hopes for the future generation of students, emphasizing that young people will play key roles in shaping the nation across various sectors.
“With a spirit of togetherness, we can overcome challenges and achieve great aspirations, bringing Indonesia toward a better future—whether in business, professional fields, or government,” he concluded.
This year’s ceremony was further enriched by the participation of international students from Heilbronn University, Germany, who are currently taking part in a student exchange program at Untar’s Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB).
PSUT Student Activity Unit Performing the National Anthem and Patriotic Songs During the Ceremony // Doc: Untar Public Relations – SS
Meanwhile, Nicholas Triputra, Chairperson of the Tarumanagara University Choir Student Activity Unit (PSUT), who led the choir in performing the national anthem and several patriotic songs during the ceremony, shared his experience.
“As a performer, I felt happy and proud to be allowed to contribute to the celebration of Indonesia’s Independence Day. All the hard work and preparation were truly rewarded when the flag was finally raised,” he said. (KJ/PA/KJ)
Keywords: Higher Education Tridharma (Education), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)
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