The Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) organized a Guest Lecture to welcome new undergraduate students of the Economics Study Program on Friday, August 29, 2025, at the Soedarah Soepono Hall, FEB UNS. This event served as part of the faculty’s efforts to broaden students’ perspectives on strategic issues in economics.

In his opening remarks, Prof. Bhimo Rizky Samudro, S.E., M.Si., Ph.D., Dean of FEB UNS, emphasized that this activity is an important forum that provides students with in-depth insights, information, and up-to-date data, particularly on domestic and global economic developments. He highlighted its strategic importance for students, especially those entering their seventh semester.

“This event is the right moment for students to ask questions, engage in discussions, and analyze current economic developments,” stated Prof. Bhimo.

He further explained that through this forum, students not only gain experience in data workshops or training but also build a strong theoretical foundation and understanding of data that underlies economic analysis. This way, students are expected to conduct more accurate estimations and predictions in their research.

Meanwhile, Ferry Ardiyanto, Interim Deputy Assistant for Macroeconomics and Fiscal Affairs, in his address to the new students of the Economics Study Program, reminded them of the importance of perseverance and confidence in choosing Development Economics as a major, which he believes offers promising prospects in both the public and private sectors. Students were encouraged to pursue a path aligned with their passion to maximize their potential.

“Studying economics is very exciting because it covers many aspects that can be learned and applied—from theory, methodology, to the use of various analytical software. Believe me, economics is a highly promising field, and expertise in development economics is greatly needed,” he said.

The Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs also offers internship opportunities for students. These internships not only provide practical experience but also broaden professional networks and deepen understanding of public policy formulation. Through this initiative, FEB UNS hopes students will gain not only academic insights but also motivation and readiness to pursue careers in economics while contributing to national development.

The first speaker, Siti Wahyuningrum, S.ST., M.Si., Senior Policy Analyst, Deputy Assistant for Macroeconomics and Fiscal Affairs, Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, delivered a presentation on Global and Domestic Economic Dynamics and Structural Policies to Sustain Economic Resilience. Meanwhile, the second speaker, Dr. Sarjiyanto, S.E., MBA., lecturer at FEB UNS, discussed Regional Economic Development Aspects in Building National Economic Resilience and Sustainability.

This activity aligns with FEB UNS’s commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by providing data-driven, analytical, and policy-oriented learning, as well as SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, by preparing students to contribute to national economic development through a strong understanding of global economic dynamics and fiscal policy. Through this forum, students are expected not only to understand theory but also to apply their knowledge in various strategic sectors.