Understanding Geopolitics: A Contemporary Form of Nationalism

“Today’s Graduation Is not just a ceremonial moment but a reflection of real contributions in shaping smart, critical, and nationally characterized youth toward Indonesia Emas 2045,” Says Governor of Lemhannas RI, Dr. H. TB. Ace Hasan Syadzily, M.Si.. He delivered this statement during his scientific oration at the Bachelor’s and Master’s Graduation Ceremony Class XLIII Batch I of the 2025/2026 Academic Year at Garut University on Saturday (2/14).

On this occasion, Governor of Lemhannas RI delivered a scientific oration entitled “Graduates: Youth and the Nation’s Challenges.” He highlighted that universities play a key role in promoting geopolitical literacy amid today’s dynamic geopolitical landscape. According to the Governor, education programs should not only develop intellectual intelligence but also broaden young people’s global perspectives as a demographic bonus, without eroding national identity. “Understanding geopolitics and positioning the nation strategically is a concrete manifestation of modern nationalism amid global uncertainty,” he said.

In line with this, the Governor stressed that graduates, as the youth, have an important role in positioning the nation strategically. “The younger generation will determine the nation’s progress,” he said. Looking at history, youth have held pivotal roles in Indonesia’s journey even before independence, beginning with Budi Oetomo, which inspired other youth to form regional organizations. This spirit continued through the Youth Pledge (Sumpah Pemuda) and the Rengasdengklok Incident as milestones leading to the Proclamation of Independence. After independence, the youth spirit continued during the 1998 Reform movement. “The youth spirit in the future is the responsibility of Garut University graduates,” the Governor stated.

Currently, Indonesian youth face challenges, particularly in human resources. Data shows Indonesia’s Human Development Index in 2025 is 0.728, placing the country 113th out of 193 nations. If not properly prepared and managed, Indonesia’s demographic bonus could turn into a demographic disaster.

According to Statistics Indonesia (BPS) in November 2025, 7.46 million people are unemployed due to limited job opportunities, mismatches between workforce quality and labor market demands, and an education system that has yet to meet these needs. A well-managed demographic bonus is expected to foster national self-reliance and strengthen national resilience. “A fragile national resilience will not achieve national goals,” the Governor warned.

Therefore, to embrace a bright future, Garut University graduates must face the future boldly as individuals with strong character, high integrity, patriotism, geopolitical awareness, and a national perspective. “Graduates, as future national leaders, must have national character, be visionary, transformative, and adaptive to achieve resilient national defense,” he said. Concluding his scientific oration, the Governor emphasized that graduates, as youth, are agents of change who should not merely observe the world but actively safeguard national resilience toward Indonesia Emas 2045.

During the event, the Governor also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Garut University’s Rector. The MoU covers collaboration in education, research, and community service to strengthen national insight and resilience; the organization of scientific activities; and human resource capacity development between the two institutions. This collaboration is expected to produce concrete initiatives to advance both institutions and support national progress.

(NA/CHP/MDF)