Over coffee at a café in Wiyung, Surabaya, on Sunday (4 January 2026), a group of Universitas Terbuka (UT) students gathered not just to socialize, but to talk about postponed dreams. The informal meeting, initiated by prospective leaders of the UT Surabaya Student Association (HIMA), brought together students of different ages and backgrounds. 

Mawardi, a Law student, shared how his studies are driven by concern over legal inequality in Indonesia. For him, education must create real social impact. His views resonated with fellow students Satria and Zaza, who are motivated by issues of workers’ rights and critical legal thinking—reflecting the spirit of SDG 16: Justice and Strong Institutions. 

UT also serves as a pathway to economic empowerment. Alfin, a Management student, spoke about rebuilding his culinary and beauty businesses after past failures, using the management skills gained through his studies. 

Meanwhile, working students Aji, Alya, and Salman highlighted UT as a practical solution that allows them to balance work and study, while hoping for continued improvement in UT’s digital academic systems. 

The gathering illustrated UT Surabaya’s role as an inclusive and relevant learning space—supporting intellectual, professional, and economic growth without limits of age or background. From that simple café meeting, students left with renewed confidence that UT offers the flexibility, opportunity, and hope to shape a better future.