UNAIR NEWS – In collaboration with the General Secretariat of the Regional Representatives Council (DPD RI), Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) created a space for critical dialogue for the academic community through the “DPD Goes to Campus” seminar at the Bima Suci Hall at the Airlangga Convention Center (ACC) on Thursday, October 15, 2026. The forum, titled “Getting to Know the DPD RI Better: A Hub for Regional Advocacy and the Future of Indonesian Democracy,” was held to foster political awareness among the younger generation.
`Through the interactive discussion, UNAIR and the DPD encouraged students not to shy away from politics. Students should be bolder in testing ideas and play an active role in safeguarding the continuity of Indonesia’s democracy.
Critical thinking dialogue space
UNAIR Vice Rector for Entrepreneurial Ecosystem and Business Development Prof Dr Koko Srimulyo Drs MSi emphasized the university’s crucial role in providing a forum where diverse ideas can be exchanged openly and academically.
“Critical thinking isn’t just about finding what’s wrong; it’s about being able to ask the right questions, carefully examine information, understand issues from various perspectives, and construct arguments based on accurate data,” Prof. Srimulyo explained.
He encouraged students in attendance to make the most of the forum as a platform for testing ideas and broadening their understanding of democracy. “Don’t just come to listen. Use this opportunity to understand, ask questions, and test ideas from a broader perspective,” he continued.
Prof. Srimulyo believed that students in attendance will one day serve the nation in government, the legislature, and the professional sector.
“Democracy is determined not only by state institutions, but also by the quality of the people. Whatever profession you choose in the future, the ability to understand society and participate responsibly is the most important asset,” said the professor at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP).
Meritocracy and constructive politics
Meanwhile, UNAIR alumnus Dr. Lia Istifhama, a member of the Regional Representative Council (DPD) from East Java, explained that the establishment of the DPD reflects an egalitarian attitude and the application of meritocracy in Indonesia. The institution opens leadership opportunities based on capacity for the sons and daughters of the regions, without being tied to political party affiliation.
“Whether we like it or not, we live in a democracy where political activity will always exist. The key is how the younger generation is willing to love and engage in politics with constructive, not destructive, ideas,” Istifhama said.
She emphasized that politics is, in essence, an art built on four main pillars that spell SENI, Indonesian for “art”: Strategy, Equity, Nation, and Integrity.
“We need a well-thought-out strategy, fair regional autonomy, and a long-term orientation for the sustainability of the nation. Equally important is integrity. We need proof through real work, not just rhetoric,” Dr Istifhama emphasized.
Closing her presentation, Dr Istifhama urged UNAIR students (Ksatria Airlangga) not to hesitate to voice ideas from the regions. “We greatly need students’ aspirations and critical input to safeguard regional autonomy policies and a fair fiscal balance between the central and regional governments,” she said.
Author: M Yasir Dharmawan Diniy
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
