TANGERANG SELATAN — Being a university student is not only about pursuing a degree. There is a greater opportunity behind it: turning the knowledge gained during college into something beneficial to the surrounding community. This is the spirit that Vice-Regent of Mamuju Tengah (Mateng), Dr. H. Askary, sought to instill in 150 new students of Universitas Terbuka (UT) Majene.
Askary delivered the message while giving a public lecture during the Distance Learning Success Support Services (LPKBJJ) activity for the 2026/2027 Academic Year at the Wisma Syariah Pasar Baru Topoyo Hall on Sunday (Aug. 23, 2026).
Carrying the theme “The Role of the Younger Generation in Accelerating Development in Mamuju Tengah,” the activity provided a space for new students to view their educational journey from a broader perspective. From the beginning of their studies, they were encouraged to understand that education is not only a provision for themselves, but can also contribute to the progress of their region.
On the occasion, Askary provided motivation while sharing his views on the strategic role of the younger generation. According to him, new students need to take their education seriously while actively developing their potential in accordance with their chosen fields and study programs.
This encouragement is closely related to the position of the younger generation, who are considered to have an important role in determining the future direction of development in Mamuju Tengah. Therefore, improving the quality of education and human resource capacity is an asset that needs to be continuously strengthened.
“Education and the improvement of human resource capacity are the main assets that must continue to be developed,” Askary said.
Furthermore, Askary reminded students of the importance of lifelong learning. For him, the learning process does not stop when someone earns a degree, but continues from birth until the end of life as a provision for contributing to society and the region.
The message is particularly relevant for UT students who undertake the Distance Learning (PJJ) system. The flexible education model enables people from diverse backgrounds to continue their education without having to leave behind the activities and responsibilities they already have.
However, broader learning opportunities also require preparation. Therefore, the LPKBJJ activity not only provided motivation from the regional government, but also equipped new students with the knowledge they need to understand the learning system they will follow at UT.
UT Manager for Outreach, Registration, and Examinations, Dr. Syahrinullah, explained that LPKBJJ aims to equip new students with an understanding of the Distance Learning system. With this understanding, students are expected to be able to study independently while developing the skills and resilience needed to succeed throughout their studies at UT.
“This activity is expected to strengthen the motivation and readiness of new students as they undertake the distance learning process,” Syahrinullah explained.
The orientation was also designed to strengthen students’ understanding of the role of the younger generation in the development of Mamuju Tengah. In other words, the journey as a university student does not end with the academic process, but can become the starting point for making a real contribution to society.
This spirit is in line with UT’s commitment to expanding access to higher education for the wider community. Through the Distance Learning system, quality education can be accessed by people with diverse backgrounds and activities, ensuring that opportunities to continue learning are not limited by space and time.
More than simply providing access to higher education, education also serves as an important foundation for developing human resources capable of adapting and contributing. This is in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 on Quality Education, which promotes inclusive and quality education for all.
Ultimately, the 150 new students of UT Majene are not merely beginning an academic journey. They are also preparing themselves to become knowledgeable, independent individuals capable of taking part in development. From the broad learning opportunities available to them comes the hope that the knowledge they gain will eventually return to the community and help drive the progress of Mamuju Tengah.
