Semarang, July 6, 2026 – As artificial intelligence (AI), digital transformation, and the global economy continue to reshape the future of work, vocational higher education is expected to produce graduates who are not only job-ready but also capable of creating new opportunities and driving innovation. Responding to this challenge, the Creative Economy Division of the Student Executive Board (BEM) of the Vocational School, Diponegoro University initiated the 100 Young Entrepreneurs Program, with full facilitation and institutional support from the Vocational School of Diponegoro University. The online program brought together students from various study programs to strengthen entrepreneurial awareness and foster an innovation-driven mindset.
Why is this initiative important?
Because the success of vocational education should no longer be measured solely by how many graduates secure employment, but also by how many are capable of creating jobs, generating innovation, and contributing solutions to society. In an increasingly competitive global environment, entrepreneurial thinking has become an essential competency for every vocational graduate, regardless of their future career path.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Dr. Ir. Budiyono, M.Si., Dean of the Vocational School of Diponegoro University, emphasized that vocational graduates must be prepared to compete in the global labor market by combining strong technical competencies with entrepreneurial character.
“Vocational students must be ready to enter the global workforce. Technical skills alone are no longer sufficient. They must also develop entrepreneurial characteristics—being adaptive to change, proactive in identifying opportunities, and resilient when facing challenges. These qualities will enable them to thrive wherever their careers take them.”
He further explained that entrepreneurial values are not intended exclusively for students who aspire to establish businesses. Instead, they represent essential life skills that benefit every graduate, whether they choose to work in industry, pursue higher education, or become entrepreneurs.
“At the Vocational School of Diponegoro University, we prepare our students for three equally valuable career pathways: entering the workforce, continuing their studies, or becoming entrepreneurs. Regardless of the path they choose, an entrepreneurial mindset will remain a key foundation for long-term success.”
Chairman of the Student Executive Board (BEM), Zahran Achmad Muyassar, welcomed the initiative and expressed his appreciation for the institutional support provided by the Vocational School.
“We highly appreciate the implementation of this program. The 100 Young Entrepreneurs Program reflects BEM’s commitment to facilitating students who are interested in entrepreneurship by providing knowledge, inspiration, and networking opportunities. We hope more students will have the confidence to start their entrepreneurial journey while they are still on campus and eventually become business leaders who create meaningful impacts for society.”
The program featured three distinguished speakers who shared practical insights on entrepreneurship, business development, and opportunities for young innovators: Maya Aresteria, S.H., S.E., M.Si., Ak.; Riandhita Eri Werdani, S.M.B., M.S.M.; and Nova Ari Astuti, S.E., M.Si.
The 100 Young Entrepreneurs Program also reflects the Vocational School’s commitment to strengthening its Global Employability Ecosystem, one of the seven strategic excellence ecosystems supporting its roadmap toward becoming a World Class Vocational School. Through industry collaboration, applied learning, character development, and entrepreneurship education, the School equips graduates with the competencies and mindset needed to excel in a rapidly changing world.
The collaboration between student organizations and the institution demonstrates that entrepreneurship is a shared responsibility across the academic community. By providing students with opportunities to learn, innovate, and develop entrepreneurial capabilities from an early stage, the Vocational School of Diponegoro University is nurturing graduates who are not only prepared for employment but also capable of creating jobs, driving innovation, and contributing to sustainable economic development at both the national and global levels.
Tags: Vocational School UNDIP, Diponegoro University, Student Entrepreneurship, 100 Young Entrepreneurs Program, Global Employability, World Class Vocational School, Entrepreneurship, Innovation, Higher Education, Future Skills, Global Workforce, Entrepreneurial Mindset