Stella Christie Urges Students to Build Broad Knowledge for AI Era

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Vice Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Stella Christie, has encouraged new students at the University of the Republic of Indonesia (UKRI) to use their time in higher education to broaden their knowledge and develop skills for a rapidly changing future. She said university life should not be limited to classroom learning, but should also provide opportunities to gain diverse experiences, explore new fields, and develop critical thinking.

Speaking during UKRI’s New Student Campus Life Orientation Program on in Jakarta, Thursday 10 September 2026, Stella urged students to make the most of their years at university. She encouraged them to actively seek learning opportunities and experiences beyond their chosen academic disciplines.

“Time to live maximally. Don’t do university halfway; go all out,” Stella said. She also reminded students not to give up easily when they encounter experiences or outcomes that differ from their expectations.

She stressed that students should not restrict their knowledge to the field they formally study. “Universities come from the word universal, so do not limit yourselves to just one field,” she said, adding that broad knowledge would help students understand a constantly changing world.

The need for broad-based knowledge is becoming increasingly important amid rapid technological developments and the growth of artificial intelligence. She said students need to learn how to connect knowledge from different fields so they can understand complex issues from a wider perspective rather than relying on expertise in only one area.

She also encouraged students to strengthen their critical thinking skills by actively processing information, questioning assumptions, and learning through academic experiences. “If you want to develop critical thinking skills while at university, try joining research, and if you have not done so, start conducting research with your lecturers,” Stella said.

According to the Vice Minister, research can give students practical experience in examining problems, testing ideas, and developing knowledge beyond conventional classroom learning. Such experiences can also help students build the adaptability needed to navigate technological change and emerging challenges in the workplace and society.

Stella expressed hope that UKRI students would make the most of their university years by expanding their knowledge and experiences, taking on new challenges, and remaining resilient when facing setbacks. The approach is in line with the Higher Education, Science, and Technology for Impact agenda, which seeks to strengthen human resources through education and research so that knowledge can deliver greater benefits to society.