Semarang, May 23, 2026 – The Level Up 2026 program, organized by the Department of Cadre Formation and Student Resource Development of the 2026 Public Administration Student Association (HMPS), serves as a platform to broaden student perspectives and enhance leadership capacities. Carrying the theme “Think Global, Lead Strategically,” this event aims to encourage students to develop a global mindset as well as strategic leadership skills to address various challenges in an increasingly dynamic era. The program was held at the FIMENA Auditorium, 3rd Floor, Building A, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Diponegoro.
The event commenced with a thought-provoking presentation by Juang Abdi Muhammad, S.AP., M.AP., who elaborated on the critical importance of global awareness for university students in comprehending international dynamics that shape societal conditions and national policies. Participants were encouraged to examine the interconnections between global issues—such as geopolitics, international economics, climate change, digital technological advancements, and governance systems—and their direct implications for Indonesia. Through various case studies, students gained insight into the multifaceted and interrelated nature of contemporary challenges, underscoring the need for a broader, more critical worldview.
Beyond fostering global thinking, the session also delved into the core principles of strategic leadership. The speaker emphasized that effective leadership extends beyond active engagement in activities; it demands the capacity to set priorities, assess risks, consider long-term consequences, and make data-driven decisions that align with organizational needs. Participants were inspired to cultivate analytical thinking, collaborative skills, and unwavering integrity—key attributes for future leaders poised to drive meaningful change within their communities.
Following the lecture, an interactive Q&A session provided participants with the opportunity to pose questions, share opinions, and voice critical reflections on the material presented. This dialogue not only clarified key concepts but also introduced fresh perspectives, enriching participants’ understanding of evolving socio-political phenomena.
To translate theoretical knowledge into practical competence, the program progressed to a hands-on mini simulation. Participants were presented with a realistic case study involving a sponsorship dilemma for a campus event. Tasked with acting as the event chairperson, they faced a high-value sponsorship offer from a company under public scrutiny for alleged environmental violations and unfair labor practices. Students were required to analyze the situation, identify potential risks, and formulate strategic measures to address the ethical and operational complexities. This simulation served as a valuable exercise in critical thinking, teamwork, and measured decision-making, enabling participants to apply the principles of Think Global and Lead Strategically in a near-real-world context.
The event concluded with a reflection session, offering participants a dedicated space to evaluate their learning journey throughout Level Up 2026. Attendees shared their impressions, feedback, and key takeaways, while also assessing the program’s overall impact. This reflective practice was instrumental in internalizing the values of strategic leadership and global-mindedness, encouraging students to integrate these lessons into their academic pursuits, organizational roles, and social interactions.
Through its comprehensive series of activities—expert-led lectures, dynamic Q&A, mini simulation, and guided reflection—Level Up 2026 aspired to deliver a transformative learning experience. By strengthening students’ global awareness, critical acumen, and strategic leadership capabilities, the program seeks to cultivate a generation of young leaders who are not only responsive to world developments but also proactive in driving positive change within their spheres of influence.