The Covid-19 pandemic has had a tremendous impact on various sectors, including the tourism sector and the creative economy. In the current era of VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity), all parties must take a role in contributing to the restoration of the creative tourism sector, including students.
This was conveyed by the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy of the Republic of Indonesia, Sandiaga Uno in a general lecture, Saturday (10/30/2021). This Guest Lecture organized by the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences Universitas Brawijaya (FISIP UB) raised the topic “Synergy of Independent Campus for Tourism Development with the Community”.
“Students will become the pillars of the nation’s economy, and UB will be our partner in the ministry for an important role in the future, both in the economy as a whole and in the tourism and creative sector,” said Sandi.
Sandi explained, what students can do include making tourism as a part of everyday life, helping to overcome the pandemic by implementing health protocols and making vaccinations successful, preserving nature and building local tourism destinations with the principles of environmental sustainability and quality, improving skills, mastering technology, and collaborating creative and innovative ideas.
“Start by knowing the potential of creative tourism in Malang, East Java, and Indonesia. Introduce and promote them to the world. You are digital natives, you can help overcome the pandemic by marketing Indonesian tourism and economy creative through social media,” he said.
He also motivates students to finalize plans and does not hesitate to open up business opportunities and support Indonesian-made or local creative products. Thus, it will contribute to creating job opportunities.
“Be an agent of change, don’t be couch potato. Let’s intervene, never let go. Continue to innovate, adapt, and collaborate,” he said.
In line with Sandi, the Vice Dean for General Affairs and Finance, FISIP, Dr. Ahmad Imron Rozuli, S.E., M.Si conveyed that the role of the academic community needs to be optimized as agents of change for a more prosperous Indonesia. Synergy and collaboration between the academic community, government, and the business world are the key words for the success of tourism development.
“The existence of Independent Learning Independent Campus can strengthen the campus’ position as a supporter in the national development process, by expanding the case method and project base learning, research/study, innovation, community service, mentoring, and partnerships,” explained Imron.
This activity, which is supported by BCA, was held to commemorate the 18th Dies Natalis of FISIP-UB which falls on November 2021. This general lecture was attended by UB new students of 2021 batch. The Dean of FISIP, Dr. Sholih Mu’adi, S.H., M.Si when opening the event hopes that FISIP UB can collaborate with the government and stakeholders in the future to be able to advance the tourism economy starting from Malang Raya. [Irene/ Humas UB/ Trans. Iir]
