MEDAN | INDATANEWS.COM - Indonesian National Police Chief (Kapolri) General of Police Drs. Listyo Sigit Prabowo, M.Si., delivered a guest lecture to 6,027 new students of Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara (UMSU) on Monday, September 28, 2026. The event was held as part of the large-scale Campus Life Introduction Program for New Students (PKKMB) for the 2026/2027 academic year at UMSU's main campus on Jalan Kapten Mukhtar Basri, Medan.
During his guest lecture, Kapolri urged the new UMSU students, as the country's future generation, to prepare themselves for the changes of the times. Particular attention, he said, should be given to the rapid development of digital technology, artificial intelligence (AI), cybercrime, drug abuse, and the enormous flow of information on social media.The police chief's appearance was one of the highlights of the UMSU 2026 colossal PKKMB program, which was held in a solemn, lively and patriotic atmosphere. In addition to Listyo Sigit Prabowo, Chairman of the Muhammadiyah Central Executive Board Prof. Dr. Haedar Nashir, M.Si., also attended the event and delivered a national address to thousands of new
students.Also present were North Sumatra Governor Muhammad Bobby Afif Nasution, S.E., M.M., Medan Mayor Rico Waas, Deli Serdang Regent dr. Asri Ludin Tambunan, and UMSU Rector Prof. Dr. Akrim, M.Pd., together with university leaders and members of the UMSU academic community.
Addressing thousands of new students, Listyo Sigit Prabowo said students have an important role to play in addressing Indonesia's demographic bonus and supporting the country's journey toward the goal of an "Golden Generation of Indonesia 2045." He urged students not to rely solely on formal education, but also to strengthen their character and adaptability.
"Students must not rely solely on formal qualifications. They must have strong character, be able to adapt to change, and view Indonesia's diversity as a strength rather than a weakness," Sigit said.According to the police chief, higher education institutions have an important role in developing human resources who possess not only academic abilities but also the capacity to recognize social changes and respond to various social challenges.
Students should use their university years to further develop their personal abilities and competencies, he said. Adaptability is becoming increasingly important as technology continues to advance rapidly and affect numerous aspects of everyday life.Sigit also reminded students to understand social diversity as a national strength. Indonesia is characterized by a population with diverse backgrounds. Therefore, young people must develop an attitude of mutual respect and preserve the unity of the country.
This message formed an important part of the police chief's guest lecture. The new UMSU students are not only entering an academic environment, but are also preparing themselves for an increasingly complex social and professional environment.
On the same occasion, the police chief discussed a number of challenges facing Generation Z. The development of artificial intelligence (AI) offers opportunities, but also presents challenges that students need to understand and assess responsibly.
In addition to AI, Sigit warned about the dangers of cybercrime, drug abuse and the spread of false information, which can circulate increasingly easily through social media.The enormous speed of information flows requires students to have a high level of digital media literacy. Information received through social media must be critically assessed so that unverified content is not immediately redistributed.
"Do not be merely users of technology. Become agents of change who educate society and make a positive impact. Check first before sharing, and strengthen your digital media literacy," the police chief urged.Sigit encouraged students to use technology to create tangible benefits for society. With strong digital media literacy, they can help disseminate informative and educational content while contributing to a healthier digital environment.
The message also relates to the digital transformation that is increasingly becoming part of the younger generation's daily lives. Students are not merely users of various digital platforms; they also have opportunities to produce ideas, innovations and works that can create a positive impact on society.
In addition to the police chief's guest lecture, the appearance of Muhammadiyah Central Executive Board Chairman Prof. Dr. Haedar Nashir, M.Si., was also part of the UMSU 2026 colossal PKKMB program. In his national address, Haedar acknowledged the support of the government and the Indonesian National Police for the Muhammadiyah organization, including preparations for the construction of a building for the 49th Muhammadiyah and 'Aisyiyah Muktamar in North Sumatra.
"This support is a shared commitment to advancing education and improving the welfare and development of the nation. Muhammadiyah will continue to contribute to building a progressive Indonesian civilization," Haedar said, drawing applause from thousands of new students.Haedar also delivered a special message to the 6,027 new UMSU students. He reminded them that university life is not solely about academic achievement.
"University study is not only about academic achievement, but is also a learning process for life. Here, you will be shaped to develop morals, character and maturity, and to learn how to engage with diversity," he emphasized.Haedar's message complemented the national values previously conveyed by the police chief. While Sigit emphasized preparing students for technological developments and the challenges of the digital era, Haedar focused on morality, character, maturity and the ability to respect diversity.
The entire event conveyed to the new students that a campus is not merely a place to acquire academic knowledge. Higher education is also a space for character building and the development of skills that students need to navigate social life.The UMSU colossal PKKMB for the 2026/2027 academic year was subsequently concluded with motivational chants from the 6,027 new students. Their enthusiasm was part of the welcoming ceremony and marked the beginning of their educational journey at UMSU.
Through the event, the new UMSU students received national messages from two prominent figures whose areas of emphasis complemented one another. Kapolri Sigit highlighted the importance of character, adaptability and digital media literacy, while Haedar Nashir emphasized the development of morality, maturity and respect for social diversity.The 6,027 new students now begin their academic journey at UMSU with a message to continue developing their knowledge while strengthening their character. They were also encouraged to use technology positively and take an active role in contributing to society and the nation. (IDNC)
REPORTER: H. Muhammad Said Harahap | EDITOR: Fik Sagala