Students as Key Drivers in the Energy Transition Era

The Indonesian Petroleum Association (IPA) emphasizes that students play a vital role in sustainable energy innovation and policy development. As the future workforce and decision-makers, they are not only energy consumers but also essential contributors to renewable energy adoption.

During the IPA Goes to Campus event at Universitas Trisakti, industry experts and academics discussed the evolution of oil and gas in the energy transition era. The event aimed to broaden students' perspectives on the role of the oil and gas industry in achieving a more sustainable energy future.

According to Marjolijn Wajong, Executive Director of IPA, students need to understand the significance of sustainable energy innovation as they will shape the industry's transformation in the coming years.

Oil and Gas Industry as a Catalyst for Renewable Energy

Despite global efforts to reduce fossil fuel dependence, the oil and gas industry remains a crucial player in the energy sector. Raihan Mahendra, VP Subsurface Asia Pacific at bp Indonesia, highlighted that oil and gas companies possess the infrastructure and expertise needed to facilitate renewable energy adoption.

One key aspect is the implementation of carbon capture technology, which can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By leveraging their resources, oil and gas firms can support the transition towards a more sustainable energy landscape.

Furthermore, Mulia Ginting, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Earth and Energy Engineering at Universitas Trisakti, pointed out that the energy transition requires participation from various sectors. Collaboration between academia, industry, and policymakers is essential to accelerate the development and implementation of sustainable energy solutions.

IPA’s Commitment to Youth Education and Development

As an organization representing oil and gas industry professionals, IPA actively supports educational initiatives to equip students with the knowledge needed for the future energy landscape. The IPA Goes to Campus program is part of a larger initiative, Youth@IPAConvex, which will take place during the 49th IPA Convex at ICE BSD City, Tangerang, in May 2025.

Through these initiatives, IPA aims to bridge the gap between students and the energy sector, fostering innovation in sustainable energy solutions. By engaging with industry experts, students can gain insights into the challenges and opportunities in the energy transition era, preparing them to become future leaders in the field.

Conclusion

The energy transition era presents both challenges and opportunities. Students are at the forefront of sustainable energy innovation, with the potential to drive renewable energy adoption and influence future policies. By collaborating with the oil and gas industry, they can contribute to the development of technologies like carbon capture technology, ensuring a more sustainable future.

The commitment of IPA and the energy sector to youth development will be instrumental in shaping the next generation of energy leaders. As these students step into the industry, their ideas and innovations will help accelerate the shift toward a cleaner and more efficient energy system.