The Minister of Home Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, Prof. Drs. H. Muhammad Tito Karnavian, M.A., Ph.D., delivered a powerful scientific oration at the 65th Anniversary (Dies Natalis) of Universitas Sriwijaya (UNSRI), held at the Indralaya Campus Auditorium on Monday, November 3, 2025.

In his oration titled “The Role of Universities in Supporting Golden Indonesia 2045,” Minister Tito Karnavian emphasized that higher education institutions play a decisive role in shaping excellent, innovative, and adaptive human resources to realize Indonesia’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2045.

“The role of universities is vital because human resources are the key to our nation’s progress. As the highest educational institutions, universities must produce highly educated, skilled, and visionary individuals who will lead the future. Especially in the STEM fields—Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics—which are essential today. In addition, lecturers and students must contribute to lower levels of education through community service and teaching programs. Research must be the backbone of every university. Without strong research, a university cannot move forward,” he stated firmly.

He further stressed that research excellence defines the strength and competitiveness of universities. Without research, universities cannot respond to global changes or contribute meaningfully to society.

“The power of a university lies in research. Knowledge constantly evolves, and the world keeps changing. Universities must act as agents of change—driving transformation in society. Why? Because universities are home to intellectuals with strong minds and moral integrity. They are the ones capable of transforming culture and leading communities toward progress,” he declared.

Minister Tito also urged universities to act as constructive pressure groups, providing data-driven and research-based insights to help refine government policies. He underlined the importance of improving infrastructure, ensuring lecturer quality, and fostering creativity and innovation in teaching.

“UNSRI must continuously enhance the quality and quantity of its teaching staff. Lecturers must be creative, innovative, and up to date with the latest scientific developments. Education should not be static—knowledge evolves, and so must our ways of teaching and learning,” he affirmed.

He reminded UNSRI not to be complacent with its achievements but to continue advancing and building global competitiveness through innovation, collaboration, and research excellence.

Meanwhile, UNSRI Rector Prof. Dr. Taufiq Marwa, S.E., M.Si., expressed his deep appreciation for the Minister’s presence and leadership as the Chair of the UNSRI Board of Trustees (MWA). He noted that the Minister’s guidance has been instrumental in strengthening UNSRI’s transformation toward a Legal Entity State University (PTN-BH).

“On behalf of the entire academic community, I extend our sincere gratitude to Prof. Drs. H. Muhammad Tito Karnavian, M.A., Ph.D., for his continuous support and inspiring oration. His leadership has provided a strong foundation for UNSRI’s advancement. We pray for his continued health and success in bringing positive impact to the nation and to Universitas Sriwijaya,” the Rector stated.

The Rector highlighted that the university’s anniversary is not merely a celebration of its age, but a reflection of a long journey marked by perseverance, dedication, and unity.

“Sixty-five years ago, Universitas Sriwijaya was founded to fulfill the dream of the South Sumatra community for a higher education institution that could enlighten the nation and accelerate regional development. From a small institution on the banks of the Musi River, UNSRI has grown into a leading and influential university in western Indonesia, with campuses in Indralaya and Palembang, and an ever-expanding network of research and community engagement,” he said.

He further expressed that UNSRI’s success is the result of collective effort—of its founders, lecturers, staff, students, and alumni—whose dedication has shaped the institution’s legacy.

“Let us honor our predecessors for their unwavering service and devotion. Their sacrifices and contributions are the pillars upon which this university stands today,” he said solemnly.

The 65th Anniversary of Universitas Sriwijaya carries the theme “UNSRI Synergizes, Impacts the Nation.” The Rector explained that the theme reflects UNSRI’s commitment to collaboration, relevance, and meaningful contribution to national progress.

“There are two key words in this year’s theme—Synergize and Impact.
Synergize means working hand in hand, contributing together, no matter how small. UNSRI’s progress is built not by one person, but by collective effort—moving forward together, supporting and empowering each other.
Impact means driving real change—creating measurable improvements for society and the nation. UNSRI is committed to becoming a university that truly makes a difference, through strong governance, excellent human resources, advanced infrastructure, and sustainable collaboration,” he emphasized.

In closing, the Rector expressed his deepest gratitude to all UNSRI leaders, lecturers, staff, students, alumni, and partners for their unwavering commitment and contribution to advancing the university.

The scientific oration marked the culmination of UNSRI’s 65th Anniversary celebrations, attended by high-ranking officials, regional leaders, academics, and distinguished guests from across Indonesia.