MAJENE — The future of Majene will not be determined solely by government policies or infrastructure development. Behind every development plan is a younger generation that will eventually carry the torch of change. Therefore, students of Universitas Terbuka (UT) Majene are encouraged not merely to pursue degrees, but also to take on a role as agents of change in society.
The encouragement is part of the Government of Kabupaten (Pemerintah Kabupaten – Pemkab) Majene’s attention to strengthening the capacity of its younger generation. UT Majene students are considered to have a strategic position because the education they pursue can serve as a foundation for helping address various development challenges in the region.
The spirit is also in line with the character of UT’s flexible education system. This educational model provides opportunities for members of society, including those with work activities or other responsibilities, to continue pursuing higher education.
For the younger generation, access to education is not merely about obtaining a diploma. More importantly, education is a process of shaping ways of thinking, broadening perspectives, and building the courage to become involved in issues within their surrounding communities.
In the context of Majene’s development, students and young people can contribute through ideas, innovation, and concrete actions according to their respective fields of study. The knowledge gained through higher education is expected not to remain merely theoretical but to be brought back into the community and provide meaningful benefits.
Collaboration between local governments and higher education institutions is therefore important. Governments need human resources capable of viewing problems critically while offering solutions, while young people need opportunities to develop their potential and demonstrate their ability to contribute to regional development.
This spirit also positions education as an important foundation for sustainable development. Expanding access to quality higher education is in line with SDG 4 on Quality Education, while also supporting SDG 8 on Decent Work and Economic Growth through the development of young people’s competencies and readiness to enter the workforce.
For UT Majene students, the message can serve as a reminder that being a university student is not merely an academic routine. There is a greater responsibility to take knowledge beyond the learning environment and transform it into something that creates an impact.
Ultimately, becoming an agent of change does not always have to begin with major steps. Change can grow from the courage to share ideas, help the surrounding community, create innovations, and use one’s knowledge to address society’s needs.
From Majene, that hope is now directed toward its younger generation. Because the future of a region is not something to simply wait for. The future is prepared, and the young people of UT Majene are expected to be among those who dare to start shaping it.
