Indonesia
The Head of Master’s Program in Indonesian Language Education at UNISMA Postgraduate Program, Dr. Ahmad Tabrani, M.Pd., appeared as a guest on the Kelas Inspirasi (Inspiration Class) segment of Radio Republik Indonesia (RRI) Kediri in early June (8/6/2020). The appearance also served as an opportunity to introduce Universitas Islam Malang to a broader audience.
The head of UNISMA’s Scout Base (Pangkalan Pramuka) shared his personal journey rom his early education through to his studies in Indonesian Language Education and Linguistics at the Institute of Teacher Training and Education (IKIP) Malang, now known as Universitas Negeri Malang (UM). The host expressed hope that his educational journey would serve as an inspiration for the millennial listeners tuning in to RRI Kediri.
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Amid the ongoing pandemic, Dr. Tabrani has remained actively engaged in online teaching, utilising mainstream communication platforms such as Zoom. He has also ensured that accommodations are made for students in areas where 4G network coverage is not yet available.
Several messages for millennials were delivered during his telephone conversation with RRI broadcaster Ayu Artha. First, he urged millennials to stay attuned to developments in information technology and to keep pace with the Industry 4.0 world through innovation, creativity, intellectual sharpness, and an ability to identify emerging opportunities. “There is no need to wait, go out and seize the ball,” he concluded.
He noted with concern, however, that many millennials continue to be drawn into negative behaviours as frequently reported in the media. In his view, the educational curriculum needs to be strengthened by placing greater emphasis on character and spiritual education. “What is the value of intellectual intelligence, if it is not accompanied by spiritual intelligence?” he said.
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He also suggested that the current period of hardship should be harnessed productively through creative pursuits such as writing or engaging in activities one enjoys, such as gardening. The pandemic has also, he noted, deepened the intensity of relationships with family and those in one’s immediate circle. The lecturer in Indonesian Language Education at the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education therefore encouraged young people to communicate and share with adults in their lives, as a source of motivation to keep creating.
Closing the Kelas Inspirasi segment on RRI Kediri, Dr. Ahmad Tabrani conveyed his hope that, even in the midst of this pandemic, young people will remain creative, resilient, and innovative continuing to strive, to pray, and to stay vigilant, as we all face an adversary that cannot be seen with the naked eye. (NAD/AL/PPS)
