Balikpapan, August 4, 2025 – During the sacred moment of the SPIn ETAM 2025 Senate Session, the Vice Mayor of Balikpapan, Dr. Ir. H. Bagus Susetyo, M.M., delivered a scientific oration at the Integrated Laboratory 1 of the Kalimantan Institute of Technology (ITK). Titled "Becoming an Impactful Student Through Works and Community Service in the Digital Era, Industrial Revolution 4.0, and Society 5.0," he emphasized the crucial role of students as agents of change and drivers of digital transformation at both local and national levels.

Students and the History of National Change

Dr. Bagus Susetyo began his oration by recalling the historical role of students in Indonesia's journey. Students have played an important part as agents of social change, bringing progress, and acting as the vanguards in driving positive change in society. This role is not only relevant in the past but is also essential for facing the challenges of the current digital era. History records the contributions of students in the struggle for independence, reform, and social movements. Mohammad Yamin, Soekarno, and Hatta are real examples of students who dared to initiate major changes at a young age. Today, the nation's challenges have shifted from physical colonization to active engagement in a global era marked by technological revolution and digital transformation.

Facing the Challenges of Industrial Revolution 4.0 and Society 5.0

Amidst the wave of global transformation, students face two major challenges: Industrial Revolution 4.0 and Society 5.0. Industrial Revolution 4.0 emphasizes the integration of technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, and artificial intelligence, which demands an adaptive and technologically literate workforce. On the other hand, Society 5.0 emerges as a response to technological disruption, placing humans at the center of innovation and solutions. Its goal is not just efficiency, but also creating an inclusive society that balances technological progress with human values.

However, Indonesia still faces a major challenge: a low level of digital literacy. According to the ASEAN Global Digitalization Index 2024, Indonesia still lags behind other ASEAN countries. This condition is also reflected locally, where East Kalimantan is categorized as "Fair" in the 2024 Indonesian Digital Society Index (IMDI).

The Role of Students in Local Digitalization Synergy

Dr. Bagus Susetyo affirmed that this condition highlights the importance of students' roles as pioneers in building digital awareness and skills in society. Students are expected to be a bridge between government digital policies and the community's literacy needs. In Balikpapan and East Kalimantan, students can take part in digital education, policy advocacy, and the development of community-based innovations to accelerate the equitable distribution of digital transformation.

The Balikpapan City Government itself has been striving to improve digital governance through the Electronic-Based Government System (SPBE). Data shows an increase in the national SPBE index from 2021 to 2024, including in East Kalimantan. This demonstrates a synergy between the readiness of government institutions and the digital skills of the community, where the role of students is highly strategic in encouraging more equitable adoption.

The implementation of the Smart City concept is a relevant strategic step to realize Balikpapan's vision as a "Comfortable Global City for All within the Framework of a Pious City." Four of Balikpapan City's nine priority programs—namely bureaucratic transformation, improving health and education services, developing MICE tourism, and fostering innovation and creativity—are directly related to the urgency of digital transformation.

Challenges, Opportunities, and Hopes

At the end of his oration, Dr. Bagus Susetyo identified several challenges faced by students, such as the digital divide, a lack of technical skills, and socioeconomic gaps. However, on the other hand, there are great opportunities from digitalization, a technology-based economy, and the development of social innovation.

He expressed his hope that students must be oriented toward making real contributions to the nation through their work and community service. Campuses and students must collaborate to build a more advanced, sustainable, and inclusive Indonesia. With digital skills, students can develop technology-based solutions that provide social benefits, even on a global stage.

The scientific oration concluded with a quote from Soekarno, "Give me 10 youths, and I will shake the world." This powerful message fosters the spirit that through collaboration and contributions, students have the power to create a broader positive impact.