Depok-Climate change not only shakes the food system, but also the economic stability of rural communities. However, behind these problems there are opportunities to create innovative solutions. Alya Putri Ramadanty, a student of the Financial and Banking Administration study program, Vocational Education Program, Universitas Indonesia (UI) expressed her innovation through the 15th Asia Youth International Model United Nations (AYIMUN). The event, which took place on November 1-4, 2024 in Bangkok, Thailand, became a stage for Alya to convey her big idea, namely promoting sustainable agriculture as a key strategy in dealing with the impacts of climate change.
Thanks to her contributions and various relevant ideas, Alya successfully received a Verbal Commendation award. This award is a clear testament to her outstanding contribution in providing concrete solutions in international forums. Her journey to AYIMUN was not as easy as turning the palm of her hand. After receiving information about AYIMUN from the Head of the Financial Administration and Banking Study Program, Vindaniar Yuristamanda Putri, S.I.A., M.M., Alya prepared a position paper, an analytical document that was part of the internal selection process.
(Photo: Alya receiving an award at the 15th AYIMUN event)
In the process, the experience at AYIMUN provided Alya with many valuable lessons. Academically, she learned to critically analyze global issues and develop relevant arguments. Courses, such as Risk Management and Financial Management, will also help her understand the financial context of the issues discussed. In addition, communication, negotiation, and leadership skills can be improved through the competition. It did not stop there, she also had to submit a motivational essay and register officially through the AYIMUN website. She did all this while playing the role of an active student with a busy schedule.
In the AYIMUN forum she attended, Alya chose to highlight sustainable agricultural strategies that can be a solution not only to survive, but also a step to mitigate the impacts of climate change. “I believe that by adopting environmentally friendly technologies, crop diversification, and more efficient practices, we can create a more resilient agricultural system,” said Alya.
According to her, this issue is also very relevant for Indonesia, an agricultural country whose economy depends on the agricultural sector. Sustainable strategies like this not only help combat climate change, but also have a positive impact on the economy of rural communities.
Meanwhile, in participating in this event, Alya admitted that she met many young delegates from various countries with unique perspectives in the activities she participated in. “The discussion was very dynamic and challenging. Other delegates had different approaches, and that made the debate richer,” said Alya. The most memorable moment for her was when she presented an innovative data-based solution on sustainable agriculture. Her practical and relevant ideas received appreciation from other delegates, which ultimately helped her win the Verbal Commendation award.
(Photo: Alya during a discussion with various delegates from other countries)
“Opportunities like this are a way to prove that we, UI Vocational students, are able to compete on the international stage. Don’t be afraid to try and prepare yourself seriously,” said Alya.
UI Vocational Education Program Director, Padang Wicaksono, S.E., Ph.D, said that Alya’s experience at AYIMUN is proof that solutions to global challenges can be born from young people’s thinking. “With courage and strong determination, Alya shows that issues as big as climate change and food security can be raised by Indonesian students to provide real impact. Hopefully other students can follow in Alya’s footsteps to voice positive opinions and aspirations for the development of Indonesia,” said Padang.
