UNAIR NEWS – Increasingly dynamic geopolitical and geostrategic challenges require military officers to rely not only on a patriotic spirit, but also on strong intellectual capability. This situation became the foundation for Assistant for Operations to the Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Dr Yayan Sofiyan ST MSi CHRMP MTr Opsla, to keep pursuing his education until he earned a doctorate from the Postgraduate School of Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR).
He completed his doctoral studies in 2 years and 6 months, and expressed gratitude for being able to finish his education at one of the best universities. He also expressed appreciation for the full support of his colleagues, who gave soldiers the widest possible opportunity to pursue their education.
Geopolitical demands and historical reflection
Explaining why he returned to college, Laksda Sofiyan said that future developments at the national, regional, and global levels will require officers who are professional, morally upright, and broad-minded.
“Current geopolitical and geostrategic developments require an officer to not only fight patriotically, but also be professional, intellectually capable, and competent in keeping pace with the dynamics of the times,” he said.
This reflection stems from his long experience leading more than 23 Indonesian Navy warships and traversing the Indonesian archipelago. For Sofiyan, Indonesia’s natural resources and strategic advantages have drawn the world’s interest since the colonial era. Therefore, national unity must continue to be protected from threats of provocation and division, especially in today’s information age.
“The technology and social media we have should be used to gain knowledge, strengthen unity, and advance the country, not to incite,” he stressed.
Education barometer rooted in patriotism
During his studies at the UNAIR Postgraduate School, Sofiyan saw firsthand the quality of the highly dedicated teaching staff, lecturers, and professors. He hoped UNAIR would continue to strengthen its position as a barometer of higher education, one that attracts students from Indonesia and abroad.
He also stressed that all the knowledge gained at this campus he takes pride in must be translated into concrete action grounded in the values of faith. To that end, he hoped UNAIR will continue to produce intelligent generations with a spirit of patriotism.
“My hope is that Universitas Airlangga will continue to produce a generation that is not only intellectually intelligent, but also has the spirit of patriotism to take Indonesia forward as an advanced nation, in the economy, technology, and industry,” Sofiyan concluded.
Author: Fauziah Laili Romadhon
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
