The Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB) Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY), in collaboration with FEB Universitas Baturaja (Unbara), organized a National Entrepreneurship Seminar themed “Entrepreneurial Mindset: Facing Challenges in the Digital Era.” The event was attended by more than 150 participants, including students, lecturers, and academic staff from both universities.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Denies Priantinah, M.Si., Ak., CA., Vice Dean for Research, Cooperation, Information Systems, and Business (RKSIU) FEB UNY, encouraged participants to continue innovating and collaborating in response to digital transformation. “In today’s era, the strongest are not those who possess the most wealth. With knowledge, innovation, and adaptability, we can navigate the rapid changes of our time,” she said.

Dean of FEB Universitas Baturaja, Dr. Mardiah, highlighted the importance of the seminar’s theme, particularly for Generation Z, who face both present and future challenges. She also urged academic staff at Unbara to broaden their perspectives and maintain enthusiasm in learning. “An entrepreneurial mindset is essential for today’s generation to remain sensitive and responsive to the challenges around them,” she noted.

The seminar featured two keynote speakers: Ahmad Chafid Alwi, M.Pd., a lecturer at FEB UNY, and Megawati Syahril, S.E., M.B.A., CEO and founder of Sagata Sukses Bersama. Ahmad Chafid Alwi shared practical tips on embracing an entrepreneurial spirit, likening entrepreneurs to drivers who control the direction of their ventures, as opposed to passengers who merely follow without agency. He also stressed the importance of adopting a growth mindset that embraces development and feedback, contrasting it with a fixed mindset that resists change.

Meanwhile, Megawati Syahril shared her journey in building Sagata Sukses Bersama, a business that empowers people with disabilities. She recounted the initial difficulty of gaining their trust, as they often felt approached out of pity. However, through sincerity and sustained engagement, mutually beneficial cooperation was eventually established.

The seminar concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, where students eagerly expressed their views on future career paths, whether as entrepreneurs or professionals. Several students even shared that they had already started their own businesses. The event closed with the signing of a memorandum of understanding between FEB UNY and FEB Universitas Baturaja by both deans, symbolizing their commitment to fostering entrepreneurship development among students.

This collaborative initiative also aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The emphasis on entrepreneurial education contributes to SDG 4: Quality Education, by fostering innovative learning beyond the classroom. The promotion of entrepreneurial skills supports SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, equipping students with competencies for sustainable livelihoods. Furthermore, the empowerment of people with disabilities through entrepreneurship resonates with SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, as it highlights inclusive practices that create opportunities for marginalized groups. Together, these efforts demonstrate how higher education institutions can play a strategic role in advancing sustainable development through entrepreneurship. (fdhl)