A Public Lecture themed ‘Building a Technopreneur Ecosystem with Visionary Leadership’ was hosted by Universitas Dian Nuswantoro (Udinus). The lecture featured two expert speakers, including Prof. Dr. Ir. Edi Noersasongko, M.Kom., (the Chancellor of Udinus) and Dr. Ir. Zanariah, M.Si., (the Deputy Mayor of Kediri).

The lecture was hosted at Udinus’ branch in Kediri, on Thursday, October 10, 2024.

During the lecture, the chancellor emphasized that there had been changes in the era for the young generation to utilize as business opportunities. Currently, one can garner millions by merely using cameras or smartphonesthrough internet platforms, such as YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram.

“These platforms are social media. If these platforms were to be utilized creatively, one would potentially be popular. Revenue or income can be gathered through endorsement or advertisements of these platforms,” said the professor majoring in technopreneurship.

On the same occasion, Prof. Edi also reminded students not to dive into the illegal side of social media, such as illegal investment and online gambling. Two of which have been major issues in media over the past several years.

“Every business must be run and maintained with dedication. There is no such thing as shortcuts, including online gambling and illegal investment. These two things have been under the control of those in charge through their algorithm. In addition, digital footsteps may also affect your reputation,” the Chancellor emphasized.

The public lecture was attended by 200 participants comprised of students. On that occasion, Tri Rustanti, S.E., M.M., (the Chairman of the Dian Nuswantoro Foundation) was also present, alongside Dr. Drs. Abdul Syukur, M.M., (the Director of Udinus Kediri), Dr. Didik Hermanto, S.T., M.Pd., (the Operational Coordinator), Chevy Ning Suyudi, ST., MT., (the Head of Bappeda), Moh. Anang Kurniawan, S., STP. MM., (the Head of the Education Service of Kediri), and Ir. Un Achmad Nurdin, MM., (the Head of the Workforce and Human Resources Development Agency)

Opportunities for Gen Z

During her discussion, Dr. Ir. Zanariah, M.Si., (the Deputy Mayor of Kediri) also revealed the popularity of discourse concerning Gen Z negative behaviors. Gen Z is often criticized for not being able to uphold norms and social structures at workplaces and tends to be spoiled, weak, and not feeling enough.

“Despite all of that, they have the advantage of learning technology since their childhood, also known as digital natives. If were to instill them with proper mindsets , they will be able to be adaptive and go with the flow of technology and social media, as well as possessing a huge opportunity to be digital leaders,” she revealed.

Zanariah explained that to be a digital leaders in this day and age, the generation gap is among the most crucial aspects. Differences in characters and preferences in every generation will serve as a barrier to communication, allowing intergenerational communication to not go properly.

“The other challenges emerged from the rapidly happening digitalization, powerful flows of information, filter bubble and echo chamber, and lack of reading interest. From this situation, Gen Z must have the proper leadership style, so it is important for us to provide them with education concerning leadership so that they could lead themselves and their organizations well,” he uttered.

At the end of her discussion, the deputy mayor advised the students at Udinus Kediri to keep learning even after graduation. Students must not be afraid to think critically and connect with others, as it would expand their perspectives, as well as allow them to use technology positively.

“Hopefully, what I have discussed in this public lecture can help and motivate all students at Udinus Kediri. I also hereby express my appreciation to Udinus for granting our civil servants with scholarships,” she concluded.

As additional information, there were 25 civil servants from the Kediri Government receiving scholarships to study at Udinus. The deputy mayor hoped for them to study properly and finish their studies for the future of Kediri. (Humas Udinus/Haris. Foto: Humas Udinus)