UNAIR NEWS – The rapid development of technology, automation, and digitalization has reshaped the workforce landscape amid global transformation. Preparing young people to face this reality became the main focus of TRANS7 Mengajar Jilid 12. The event was held on Thursday (September 24, 2026) at Candradimuka Hall, Nano Building, MERR-C Campus, Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR).
Head of the Center for Public Relations and Protocol (PHMP) UNAIR, Dr Pulung Siswantara MKes, emphasized the importance of learning directly from industry practitioners. He hoped the event, themed “Future Ready: Leadership, Creativity and Agility for the Next Generation,” could be used to the fullest to gain insights, ask questions, and prepare for the future ahead.
“Today, you’re not merely consumers. You have the opportunity to learn directly from the leaders behind the success of major brands. To stay relevant and excel, you need strong leadership, creativity that’s constantly sharpened, and the agility to adapt to the changing times,” he explained.
The importance of agility and leadership
In line with Dr Siswantara, Head of the Career and Alumni Impact Center (PKKA) UNAIR Prof Dr Nisful Laila MCom also emphasized that leadership in the modern era is closely tied to the ability to navigate real-world work conditions. She believes that while academic theory remains important as a foundation, the real determinants of success are how well someone recognizes their own potential and understands the industry’s constantly shifting needs.
“The reality is, creativity is no longer an exclusive skill reserved for artists. Increasingly complex problem-solving demands high creativity across nearly every profession. Machines and artificial intelligence may take over repetitive tasks, but technology will never be able to replicate human creativity, empathy, and leadership,” she explained.
Prof Laila noted that golden opportunities often come from unexpected paths. By letting go of an initial plan and daring to pivot, that adaptability can lead to major success in an entirely different field. “A career that veers off from the original plan isn’t the end of the road. It’s a turning point for discovering new potential,” she added.
Students’ future
Aware of today’s growing challenges, UNAIR remains committed to making a strong, measurable contribution to students’ futures through a structured career-planning initiative. This effort does not wait until students reach their final year. It begins on their very first day, through an initial assessment in the first semester.
Prof Laila explained that this strategic step helps shape graduates with the HEBAT character (Humble, Excellent, Brave, Agile, Transcendent). “Be ready to stay agile and adapt when the universe has other plans. Keep sharpening your leadership resilience, nurture limitless creativity, and become someone who’s adaptive. That’s the real key to becoming part of a golden generation ready to embrace the future,” she said.
Author: Putri Andini
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
