IKN – The Rector of Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK), Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Agus Rubiyanto, M.Eng.Sc., was invited by IPB University’s Institute for Leadership and Executive Education (LKPE) to speak at the 2026 Regional Character Development Bootcamp for SMA Unggul Garuda Transformasi (SUGT) students in East Kalimantan Region 3. The event took place at SMA Taruna Nusantara’s IKN Campus on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.

Leading a session themed “Excellence, Creativity, and Innovation,” Prof. Agus presented Unlock Your Potential: From Creativity to Innovation and Excellence. He encouraged participants to recognize their potential, embrace new experiences, and develop the discipline needed to strengthen their abilities and pursue their aspirations.

Prof. Agus also shared his personal journey from his university years to becoming the Rector of ITK. His story offered participants a perspective on personal development as an ongoing process, with each stage providing opportunities to learn and prepare for the next step.

Drawing on his experiences, he emphasized the importance of understanding one’s interests and strengths to determine a clear direction for growth. The courage to try creates opportunities to gain new experiences, while discipline helps sustain consistent progress toward goals.

Alongside personal potential and innovation, Prof. Agus highlighted the importance of taking pride in being Indonesian. He encouraged participants to carry this sense of national identity throughout their educational journeys, so that their abilities and achievements can benefit their country.

The session was engaging and interactive, supported by the strong discipline characteristic of the SUGT character development program. Personal stories and a question-and-answer session gave participants opportunities to explore Prof. Agus’s perspectives on personal growth and preparation for the future.

The program was organized by IPB University through LKPE under a mandate from Indonesia’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology to support the 2026 SUGT Enrichment Program. It aims to strengthen students’ character, develop adaptive mindsets, and prepare them to navigate change and global challenges.

Prof. Agus’s participation reflects ITK’s contribution to nurturing the younger generation. By recognizing their potential, embracing innovation, maintaining discipline, and taking pride in their national identity, participants are expected to become better prepared to turn their abilities into meaningful contributions to society and the nation.