Source: Untar Public Relations – RJ
Jakarta’s progress cannot be measured solely by infrastructure development and economic growth. The psychological well-being of its residents also deserves attention so that the city’s development goes hand in hand with improvements in people’s quality of life.
This perspective was shared by Universitas Tarumanagara (Untar) Faculty of Psychology lecturer Fransisca Iriani Roesmala Dewi during her scientific address at Untar’s 88th Graduation Ceremony at the Jakarta International Convention Center (JICC) on Saturday (7/11/2026).
According to Fransisca, progress should also be viewed through people’s everyday experiences. This includes feeling valued, building healthy social relationships, having a sense of purpose, and having opportunities for personal growth.
As Jakarta continues to develop, the city needs people who not only have the necessary competencies but also demonstrate integrity, social awareness, and the ability to live in a diverse society. Therefore, urban development should consider human well-being as an essential part of progress.
Referring to the World Health Organization (WHO), Fransisca explained that mental health enables people to cope with life’s challenges, learn and work productively, and contribute to their communities.
Psychological well-being is also associated with self-acceptance, independence, positive relationships with others, purpose in life, and personal growth. These aspects play an important role in people’s overall quality of life.
Fransisca delivering her address at Untar’s 88th Graduation Ceremony // Doc: Untar Public Relations – RJ
The Role of Higher Education Institutions
In her address, which aligned with the graduation theme “Move Beyond: Kampus Berdampak Mengiringi Jakarta yang Terus Bergerak,” Fransisca emphasized the important role of higher education institutions in responding to society’s needs.
She explained that higher education should do more than produce graduates with academic abilities. Teaching, research, and community engagement should also be directed toward addressing real-world problems, including those related to psychological well-being.
Addressing the graduates, Fransisca reminded them that education is also a process of character development. Their university experiences help build discipline, honesty, and the courage to recognize their own limitations.
“Every graduate has a different journey and set of achievements. It is therefore important to appreciate each person’s own process without rushing to compare themselves with others,” she said.
She also noted that life after graduation can bring both a sense of pride and anxiety about the future. Psychological resilience is essential to help graduates adapt to change, recognize their emotions, and accept support when facing difficulties.
Fransisca further encouraged graduates not to view success solely as a personal achievement. Their knowledge and abilities should also create opportunities for others to grow and improve their quality of life.
“When you succeed, create opportunities for others to grow as well,” she said. (CS/YS)