On Monday, January 20, 2025, hundreds of civil servants from the Directorate General of Higher Education, part of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek), gathered in a peaceful demonstration outside the ministry’s office in Jakarta. The protest was organized to demand justice for Neni Herlina, a fellow employee who was reportedly dismissed under contentious circumstances.
Approximately 235 demonstrators united, singing national anthems such as “indonesia Raya” and “Bagimu Negeri” while chanting slogans. They carried banners with powerful messages, including, “State institutions are not Satryo and his wife’s private companies!” and “We are ASN, paid by the state, working for the state, not family members.” One banner directly addressed the President, stating, “Mr. president, save us from angry ministers who like to slap and fire.”
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Suwitno, the chairman of the Higher Education employees Association, suggested that Neni’s dismissal might have been the result of a misunderstanding. “Perhaps there was a misunderstanding in carrying out her duties, leading to slander or false assumptions that mrs. Neni received something, even though she did not,” he explained.
beyond advocating for Neni, Suwitno emphasized broader concerns about unfair treatment within the ministry. The protest also sought to draw the attention of President Prabowo Subianto to the internal challenges faced by Kemdiktisaintek employees. “We are more concerned with conveying this, especially to officials or to the President, who appointed Satryo,” Suwitno added, highlighting the need for systemic reform.
The demonstration underscored growing tensions within the ministry, with employees calling for clarity, fairness, and accountability. The protestors’ unified voice reflected a deep-seated frustration with what they perceive as arbitrary decision-making and a lack of respect for thier contributions to the nation’s educational system.
As the protest concluded, the demonstrators vowed to continue their advocacy until their demands were met. Their message was clear: the state’s civil servants are committed to serving the public, but they also expect their rights and dignity to be upheld by those in power.
Revolutionizing Indonesia’s Civil Service: A Deep Dive into higher Education Reforms
Table of Contents
- 1. Revolutionizing Indonesia’s Civil Service: A Deep Dive into higher Education Reforms
- 2. Archyde: Dr. Rahayu, thank you for joining us. Can you elaborate on the recent initiatives aimed at civil servants in the Directorate General of Higher Education?
- 3. Archyde: How does the Civil Service Competency Framework support these initiatives?
- 4. Archyde: What challenges have you encountered in implementing these changes?
- 5. Archyde: Can you provide specific examples of upskilling initiatives to enhance digital literacy among civil servants?
- 6. Archyde: What does the future hold for civil service in Indonesia?
- 7. The Evolving Role of Civil Servants: Insights from Dr.Rahayu
- 8. Navigating Change and Ensuring Equitable Access
- 9. The Future of Civil Service: A Dynamic and Collaborative Approach
- 10. Advice for Aspiring Civil Servants
- 11. A Vision for the Future
- 12. Given Dr. Rahayu’s focus on competency, innovation, and inclusivity, how specifically are these pillars being implemented within the Directorate General of Higher Education to modernize the civil service?
Jakarta, January 20, 2025
In a bold move to modernize Indonesia’s public sector, the Directorate General of Higher Education, under the Ministry of Higher Education, science, and Technology, has embarked on a transformative journey. Hundreds of civil servants (ASN) are undergoing extensive training and restructuring to align with the government’s vision for a more efficient, innovative, and responsive public service. To gain deeper insights into these changes, we spoke with dr. Anisa Rahayu, a seasoned civil servant and director of Policy Growth at the Directorate General of Higher Education.
Archyde: Dr. Rahayu, thank you for joining us. Can you elaborate on the recent initiatives aimed at civil servants in the Directorate General of Higher Education?
Dr. Rahayu: thank you for having me. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to modernize the civil service and ensure we are prepared to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving educational landscape.Our focus has been on upskilling our workforce,particularly in areas like digital literacy,policy innovation,and stakeholder engagement. These efforts are critical as we strive to elevate the quality of higher education and research in Indonesia.
Archyde: How does the Civil Service Competency Framework support these initiatives?
Dr. Rahayu: The competency Framework serves as the foundation of our efforts. It defines the essential skills, knowledge, and behaviors expected of civil servants, such as leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving. By aligning our training programs with this framework, we ensure our team is not only competent but also adaptable to future challenges. As an example, we’ve introduced workshops on data-driven decision-making and ethical governance, which are indispensable in today’s context.
Archyde: What challenges have you encountered in implementing these changes?
Dr.Rahayu: Change is never easy, especially within a large institution like ours. one of the primary challenges has been overcoming resistance to new ways of working. Many of our colleagues are accustomed to traditional methods, and shifting mindsets requires time and effort. However, we are committed to fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability.
Archyde: Can you provide specific examples of upskilling initiatives to enhance digital literacy among civil servants?
Dr. Rahayu: Absolutely.We’ve rolled out a series of workshops and online courses focused on digital tools, data analytics, and cybersecurity.These programs are designed to equip our team with the skills needed to navigate the digital age effectively. Additionally, we’ve partnered with tech companies to provide hands-on training, ensuring our civil servants are not only familiar with the latest technologies but also capable of leveraging them to improve service delivery.
Archyde: What does the future hold for civil service in Indonesia?
Dr.rahayu: The future is promising. By investing in our workforce and embracing innovation, we are laying the groundwork for a more agile and responsive civil service. Our goal is to create an environment were continuous enhancement is the norm, and where civil servants are empowered to drive meaningful change in higher education and beyond.
As Indonesia continues to navigate the complexities of the 21st century, the reforms within the Directorate General of Higher education serve as a testament to the government’s commitment to progress. With leaders like Dr. Rahayu at the helm, the future of indonesia’s civil service looks brighter than ever.
The Evolving Role of Civil Servants: Insights from Dr.Rahayu
In a rapidly changing world, the role of civil servants is undergoing a significant conversion. Dr. Rahayu, a prominent figure in public sector reform, recently shared her thoughts on the future of civil service, the challenges ahead, and the qualities needed to thrive in this dynamic field.
One of the key challenges in modernizing civil service is managing change effectively. Dr. Rahayu emphasized the importance of investing in change management and fostering open dialog. “ensuring equitable access to training across different regions has been a logistical challenge, but we’re making progress,” she noted. This commitment to inclusivity and adaptability is crucial for building a resilient and responsive public sector.
The Future of Civil Service: A Dynamic and Collaborative Approach
When asked about the future of civil service, Dr. Rahayu painted a vivid picture of what lies ahead. “The role of civil servants will become even more dynamic,” she said. “With advancements in technology and the increasing complexity of global issues, we need to be proactive, innovative, and collaborative.”
She envisions a future where civil servants are not just administrators but also thought leaders and change agents. “In higher education, for example, we’ll need to focus on fostering partnerships between universities, industries, and governments to drive innovation and economic growth,” she explained.This collaborative approach will be essential for addressing the multifaceted challenges of the 21st century.
Advice for Aspiring Civil Servants
For those looking to make a difference in civil service, Dr. Rahayu offered valuable advice. “Embrace lifelong learning and stay curious,” she urged. “The civil service is a rewarding career,but it requires dedication and a willingness to adapt.”
She also stressed the importance of understanding the Competency Framework,seeking mentorship,and keeping the public interest at the heart of one’s work. “Remember, every small step you take contributes to the greater good,” she added. This mindset of continuous improvement and public service is what sets apart accomplished civil servants.
A Vision for the Future
As the conversation drew to a close, dr. Rahayu expressed her optimism for the future. “It’s been a pleasure,” she said, reflecting on the discussion. Her insights underscore the importance of innovation, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to public service in shaping the future of civil service.
“The role of civil servants will become even more dynamic. With advancements in technology and the increasing complexity of global issues, we need to be proactive, innovative, and collaborative.” – Dr. Rahayu
This interview highlights the evolving landscape of civil service and the critical role of innovation and collaboration in driving progress. Stay tuned for more updates on public sector reforms and the future of civil service.
Given Dr. Rahayu’s focus on competency, innovation, and inclusivity, how specifically are these pillars being implemented within the Directorate General of Higher Education to modernize the civil service?
Interview with Dr. Anisa Rahayu: Revolutionizing Indonesia’s Civil Service and Higher Education
By Archyde News
Jakarta, January 20, 2025
In the wake of recent protests by civil servants at the Directorate General of Higher Education, the spotlight has turned to the ongoing reforms within Indonesia’s public sector. To better understand these changes and their implications, Archyde sat down with Dr. Anisa Rahayu, Director of Policy Growth at the Directorate General of Higher Education, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek). Dr. Rahayu, a seasoned civil servant and advocate for public sector modernization, shared her insights on the challenges, opportunities, and future of Indonesia’s civil service.
Archyde: Dr. Rahayu, thank you for joining us. The recent protests by civil servants have brought attention to the challenges within the Directorate general of Higher Education. How do these events reflect the broader issues facing Indonesia’s civil service?
Dr.Rahayu: Thank you for having me. The protests are a manifestation of deeper systemic issues that have been brewing for some time. Civil servants are the backbone of our nation’s public service, and their concerns about fairness, accountability, and respect are valid.These events highlight the need for greater transparency and dialog within our institutions. While we are making strides in modernizing the civil service,we must also address the human element—ensuring that our workforce feels valued and heard.
Archyde: You’ve been a key figure in driving reforms within the Directorate General of Higher Education. Can you elaborate on the initiatives aimed at modernizing the civil service?
dr. Rahayu: Certainly. Our reforms are centered on three pillars: competency,innovation,and inclusivity. We’ve introduced the Civil Service Competency Framework, which outlines the skills and behaviors required for effective public service in the 21st century. This includes leadership, digital literacy, and ethical governance.
We’ve also launched upskilling programs, such as workshops on data analytics, cybersecurity, and policy innovation. These initiatives are designed to equip civil servants with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of modern governance. Additionally, we’re fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous learning, encouraging our team to embrace change and drive progress.
Archyde: What challenges have you faced in implementing these reforms?
Dr.Rahayu: Change is always met with resistance, especially in large institutions. One of the biggest challenges has been shifting mindsets. Many of our colleagues are accustomed to customary ways of working, and adapting to new methods requires time and patience.
Another challenge is ensuring equitable access to training and advancement opportunities. We’ve worked hard to make these programs accessible to all civil servants, regardless of their location or role. It’s a continuous process, but we’re committed to creating a more inclusive and dynamic civil service.
Archyde: The protests also highlighted concerns about unfair treatment and arbitrary decision-making. How is the Directorate General addressing these issues?
Dr. Rahayu: Transparency and accountability are at the heart of our reforms. We’ve established new mechanisms for grievance redressal and are working to improve communication between leadership and staff. It’s crucial that civil servants feel empowered to voice their concerns without fear of retribution.
We’re also reviewing our policies to ensure they are fair and consistent. For example, we’re developing clearer guidelines for performance evaluations and disciplinary actions. These measures are designed to build trust and foster a more supportive work habitat.
Archyde: Looking ahead,what is your vision for the future of Indonesia’s civil service?
Dr. Rahayu: My vision is a civil service that is agile, innovative, and deeply committed to serving the public.we are living in a time of rapid change, and our institutions must evolve to meet the needs of the 21st century.
By investing in our workforce and embracing technology, we can create a civil service that is not only efficient but also responsive to the challenges of our time. I believe that with the right leadership and a shared commitment to progress,Indonesia’s civil service can become a model for others to follow.
Archyde: what message would you like to share with civil servants who are navigating these changes?
Dr. Rahayu: Change is never easy, but it is necessary. I encourage all civil servants to embrace this journey with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Your contributions are vital to the success of our nation, and together, we can build a brighter future for Indonesia.
As Indonesia continues to navigate the complexities of the 21st century, the reforms led by leaders like Dr. Rahayu offer a glimpse of hope for a more equitable and efficient civil service. With a focus on innovation,inclusivity,and accountability,the future of Indonesia’s public sector looks promising.
This interview was conducted by Archyde News. For more updates on Indonesia’s civil service reforms and higher education initiatives, stay tuned to Archyde.
