The Urgent Need for Higher Education Reform in Pursuit of "Indonesia Emas"

As Indonesia approaches its "Indonesia Emas" milestone, the vision of a prosperous and advanced nation by 2045, the role of higher education has come under intense scrutiny. The demographic bonus, characterised by a large, youthful population, presents both tremendous opportunities and significant challenges. Yet, recent discourse questioning the necessity of university education as a tertiary need highlights a troubling disconnect. From my perspective as a senior lecturer currently pursuing a PhD overseas, it is imperative to critically examine and address these issues for the sake of Indonesia's future.