Contributor: Hamad Shoukat | Editor: Ari Stoltze
UIII.AC.ID, DEPOK - A group of forward-thinking students from the Indonesian International Islamic University set out on a life-changing adventure in the center of Jakarta, where the busy cityscape blends seamlessly with the colorful cultural tapestry of Indonesia. On a pleasant Thursday, December 7, 2023, seventeen students specializing in climate change and sustainable finance from the Master in Public Policy (MPP) program focusing on Climate Change entered the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (MoEF) of the Republic of Indonesia. It was unbeknownst to them that this school trip would not only extend their perspectives but also bolster the prestige of Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIII), their former school.
Leading this academic journey was a group of students who were passionate about tackling the worldwide issues brought about by climate change and creating a sustainable future. The students, who came from a variety of backgrounds—both domestic and foreign—were drawn to the Faculty of Social Sciences at UIII because it fosters a strong relationship between theory and practice.
The UIII curriculum is more than simply a list of courses; it's a doorway to a better comprehension of the complexities of public policy, with an emphasis on sustainable finance and climate change in particular. Immersed in this revolutionary program, the students are not just viewers; rather, they are change agents with the know-how to successfully negotiate the complexity of environmental governance.
The committed faculty members who have never wavered in their dedication to making UIII the leading educational institution in the nation are the visionary leaders guiding this academic journey. UIII's innovative approach is demonstrated by the master's program, which acknowledges the urgent demand for professionals with expertise in sustainable finance and climate change. In addition to meeting the demands of the modern day, UIII has established a model for other academic institutions to follow by providing this specialized program.
The pupils experienced a turning point during their visit to the Ministry of Environment and Forestry. They were not only attendees at the 2023 Law Enforcement Coordination Meeting (Rakor Gakkum), but active participants led by the distinguished Prof. Dr. Ir. Siti Nurbaya Bakar, M.Sc., the Minister of Environment and Forestry. Embracing restorative justice and going beyond punishment, the minister's keynote address reflected the core values of a contemporary, innovative approach to law enforcement.
The most memorable part of the tour was interacting with Pak Roy, the Director General for Law Enforcement, Dr. Rasio Ridho Sani, M.Com, MPM. An international conversation took place in the context of the Gakkum Intelligence Centre. Curious and involved, the students explored the nuances of enforcing legislation and learned about the cooperative mentality that supports efficient law enforcement. The potential for significant international collaboration involving Indonesia and the students from countries of the Global South was demonstrated by the sharing of viewpoints on difficulties, best practices, and prospects for future cooperation.
Encircled by the lush foliage of the Arborea urban forest, the students had a private discussion with Agus Rusly, Secretary of the Directorate General of Climate Change Control, and Ade Palguna Routeka, Head of the Human Resources Extension and Development Agency. Building the ability of MoEF staff is crucial, as Pak Ade highlighted in her insights into HRM initiatives. Indonesia's significant influence on the international scene was underscored by Pak Agus, who offered a peek inside the ongoing climate discussions at COP28 in Dubai.
Through these intricate connections, the students observed how Indonesian law enforcement effectively translated public policies into concrete actions. Their viewpoints were widened by the interaction with overseas students, who provided a sophisticated grasp of the potential and difficulties that would face the nation's future law enforcement initiatives.
Along with a solid academic basis, the UIII students also gained priceless practical insights during their time at the Ministry of Environment and Forestry. This visit was evidence of the effectiveness of UIII's educational method, not just a field trip. A lighthouse that points students in the direction of a future in which they may actively support the progress of law enforcement in the vital areas of forestry and the environment is the Master in Public Policy (MPP) program focusing on Climate Change and Sustainable Finance.
We should acknowledge the innovative spirit that UIII reflects, even as we commend the University for its forward-thinking efforts. The launch of this ground-breaking study program is evidence of UIII's dedication to producing leaders of the future who are not just well qualified academically but also socially concerned. The curriculum demonstrates how UIII has shaped an emerging cadre of policy professionals prepared to take on the complex problems of the current Era.
Ultimately, UIII's MPP program, focusing on Climate Change and Sustainable Finance, demonstrates the university's dedication to quality and innovation. Along with enriching the student's academic experience, this tour to the Ministry of Environment and Forestry has demonstrated the significance and relevance of the student's chosen topic of study in the modern world. Along with their education, the students at UIII bring an impression of purpose that is consistent with the university's mission of promoting constructive social change. This reflects how UIII strives to make its mark in the world.