SLEMAN, September 27, 2024 – Universitas Atma Jaya Yogyakarta (UAJY) celebrated its 59th Dies Natalis with the theme Innovative, Excellent, and Sustainable Towards a Progressive Indonesia. The event, held at the Sport Hall of Slamet Rijadi Building on UAJY’s Campus II, marked a moment of reflection on UAJY’s long journey as an educational institution committed to developing human resources to meet global challenges. Relung Indonesia Foundation participated as an invited guest, supporting sustainable innovations in both the educational and environmental sectors.

UAJY Rector Highlights Global Challenges

In his speech, UAJY Rector Dr. G. Sri Nurhartanto emphasized the rapid changes occurring across various sectors, particularly in education, due to technological advancements, climate change, and socioeconomic dynamics. “UAJY is committed to producing graduates who are innovative and uphold integrity, equipped to face global challenges at both regional and international levels. Education must extend beyond the classroom and adapt to ever-evolving real-world conditions,” Nurhartanto stated.

He further highlighted the importance of collaboration with various stakeholders to drive innovation in the education sector. According to him, only through creative and inclusive thinking can universities adapt and contribute positively to national progress.

Insights from Andreas Triwiyono, Chairman of the Slamet Rijadi Yogyakarta Foundation

Andreas Triwiyono, Chairman of the Slamet Rijadi Yogyakarta Foundation, shared his perspective on the challenges faced by UAJY and higher education institutions in Indonesia. He noted, “As times evolve, so too do the complexities of the challenges we face. Achieving the vision of a progressive Indonesia requires continuous innovation and a readiness to approach these issues with a creative mindset.”

Triwiyono further explained that global shifts, such as those in technology, climate change, and national leadership, will always impact the education sector. “Just as metal must be repeatedly forged to become sharper, educational institutions must continuously innovate—going through difficult processes that ultimately prepare us for future challenges,” he added.

Prof. Purnomo Yusgiantoro’s Presentation on Global Risks

The event also featured a scientific presentation by Prof. Ir. Purnomo Yusgiantoro, M.Sc., M.A., Ph.D., who outlined the 20 most significant global risks anticipated in the next 10 years. The top three risks are centered around environmental, societal, and technological sectors.

“The greatest risks include failure to mitigate climate change, failure to adapt to climate change, and natural disasters along with extreme weather events,” Prof. Purnomo explained.

He elaborated that climate change impacts not only ecosystems but also the global socioeconomic order. The increasing frequency of natural disasters, biodiversity loss, and natural resource crises are real and pressing threats. Furthermore, risks from technological advancements—such as cybercrime, digital power concentration, and cybersecurity instability—are becoming more prevalent.

“If we do not act now, the consequences will be even more difficult to reverse. Cross-sector collaboration between governments, the private sector, and civil society is crucial to addressing these risks,” he emphasized.

Responses from invited participants

As an invited guest, Eka Bagus Panuntun, from Relung Indonesia, also shared his reflections on the event’s theme. “We fully support UAJY’s emphasis on sustainable innovation, particularly in climate change mitigation and biodiversity conservation. At Relung Indonesia, we are committed to providing innovative solutions at the grassroots level, involving local communities in climate action,” Eka noted.

He further emphasized that the global challenges highlighted by Prof. Purnomo underscore the need for collective action. “We believe that cross-sector collaboration, particularly between educational and environmental sectors, is key to addressing these challenges. Relung Indonesia stands ready to collaborate in ensuring environmental sustainability for future generations,” he concluded.

Collaboration for a Sustainable Future

With the theme Innovative, Excellent, and Sustainable, UAJY’s 59th Dies Natalis underscores the importance of cross-sector collaboration in addressing global challenges. UAJY and Relung Indonesia are both committed to ongoing innovation, creating programs that contribute to a better, more sustainable future.

About Relung Indonesia

Relung Indonesia Foundation is an organization dedicated to environmental and forestry conservation, with a mission to foster sustainable innovation at the grassroots level. The foundation actively engages in initiatives to mitigate climate change and preserve forest ecosystems through community-based programs and cross-sector collaborations.