Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Mendiktisaintek), Brian Yuliarto, highlighted the importance of cultivating resilient human resources (HR) in maritime technology. These professionals are expected not only to excel technically, but also to possess high integrity, strong leadership qualities, and the ability to adapt amidst the rapid transformation of the global maritime industry.
This statement was delivered by the Minister during an Academic Oration at the Open Senate Session of the Jakarta Maritime Higher Institute (STIP) on Wednesday (15/7/2026). He explained that the world is currently facing a range of complex, interconnected challenges, such as climate change, food security, migration flows, and breakthroughs in artificial intelligence (AI) technology.
According to Brian, this dynamic global landscape requires higher education institutions to produce graduates capable of harmonizing science, technology, ethics, and policy formulation. This step is crucial for delivering tangible solutions that directly enhance public welfare. Higher education institutions must position themselves as innovation hubs as well as incubators for leadership character.
Given Indonesia's highly strategic geographic location, the maritime sector plays a vital role as a pillar of the economy, food security, energy, defense, and the nation's future. Therefore, Indonesia needs world-class maritime talent capable not only of operating vessel fleets, but also of initiating innovation across the marine domain.
Addressing the theme "Seafarers as Leaders in Maritime Technology", Brian reminded graduates that technological sophistication will never replace the role of human leadership. When storms strike at sea or communication systems fail, split-second critical decisions remain in human hands, not in algorithms or artificial intelligence.
Furthermore, the Minister urged newly graduated maritime transport officers to become guardians of the environment through the adoption of green shipping concepts. Their tangible contributions are anticipated in efforts to lower carbon emissions, optimize energy efficiency, and preserve marine ecosystems for future generations.
Through the implementation of the Impactful Campus (Kampus Berdampak) program, the ministry encourages STIP Jakarta to continually advance strategic research on maritime safety, port digitalization, smart logistics systems, and modern navigation technology. These efforts aim to strengthen collaboration with industry to establish STIP as a national hub for maritime innovation.
Concluding his address, the Minister shared four essential values for the graduates as they embark on their professional careers: persistence, perseverance, grit, and humility. Humility was highlighted as vital, as true leadership aboard a vessel is built on leading by example, rather than rank alone.
