Sidiq Permana: Adaptability and Character Key to Surviving the Job Market
Auditorium Harun Nasution, UIN News Online — Alumni of UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta emphasized that adaptability, strong character, and continuous learning are essential competencies for graduates entering an increasingly competitive and uncertain job market. The message was delivered during the 139th Open Senate Graduation Ceremony held at the Harun Nasution Auditorium on Sunday (08/02/2026).
The alumni speaker, Sidiq Permana, an alumnus of the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) who currently serves as Founder and Chief Innovation Officer of NBS, shared his reflections on the challenges faced by fresh graduates in the era of rapid technological disruption and artificial intelligence.
He noted that competition in the labor market has become significantly tighter, with companies receiving large numbers of applicants but only a small percentage meeting required competencies. According to him, this condition requires graduates to continuously upgrade their skills and remain flexible in learning new capabilities beyond their core discipline.
Sidiq also highlighted the importance of lifelong learning, encouraging graduates not to stop developing themselves after graduation. He stressed that knowledge gained during university years may quickly become outdated due to the fast pace of technological change.
Beyond technical skills, he underlined that character development is equally important. Integrity, discipline, and a strong willingness to learn were identified as key attributes that help graduates remain relevant and resilient in professional environments.
He further emphasized the role of networking and real-world experience in supporting career growth. Building professional relationships from an early stage, he said, can help graduates adapt more easily and expand their opportunities in various industries.
Concluding his message, Sidiq encouraged graduates to transform their knowledge into meaningful contributions to society. He reminded them that true success is not only measured by career achievement, but also by the value they bring to others.
“Graduates are expected to continue learning, innovating, and contributing meaningfully to society,” he stated in his message.
The session formed part of the graduation agenda aimed at preparing students for life beyond campus, reinforcing UIN Jakarta’s mission to produce graduates who are academically competent, morally grounded, and socially impactful.