Monash University, Indonesia and Sinar Mas Land strengthen young digital talent through NextGen Digital Impact Competition
Grand finalists and judges group photo
BSD City, Tangerang – Monash University, Indonesia, alongside Sinar Mas Land, hosted the NextGen Digital Impact Competition, a national-scale competition that encourages the younger generation to identify and analyse real-world challenges in digital business and information technology through a research-based approach. This initiative demonstrates Monash University, Indonesia’s commitment to developing digital talent who are not only technically excellent but also possess a critical mindset to face issues in the era of digital transformation.
By raising topics relevant to future technological developments and industry needs, participants were invited to examine various challenges faced by society and the business world. This process began with identifying the root causes of problems, analysing the impact on various stakeholders, and formulating solutions based on in-depth research. Through these stages, the participants’ analytical skills were further honed to face the complexities and dynamics of the ever-evolving digital world.
Dr. Yessy Arnold Perangin Angin, Vice President of Education at Monash University, Indonesia, said: "The NextGen Digital Impact Competition is Monash’s effort to encourage the younger generation to view technology not just as a tool, but as a means to understand and address various challenges faced by society. Through a research- and analysis-based approach, we aim to equip participants with critical thinking skills relevant to the needs of the professional world and future industry developments."
Encouraging the younger generation to develop a critical and research-based mindset
The NextGen Digital Impact Competition was structured into several interconnected stages, starting from the submission of a Problem Statement Essay, a selection process by the panel of judges, to the final presentation session by the chosen finalists. At each stage, participants were required to construct a comprehensive analysis of their chosen issue, identify the root cause of the problem, and assess its implications for society and industry.
The final stage was the culmination, where participants presented their analytical results before a panel of judges comprising academics and industry practitioners. The evaluation considered the depth of analysis, relevance of the issue, understanding of the resulting impacts, and the ability to deliver arguments systematically and data-driven.
Clara Sutanto (centre), winner of the digital business category
As a form of appreciation for the quality of research and thought demonstrated by the participants, Monash University, Indonesia, together with Sinar Mas Land, announced the winners of the NextGen Digital Impact Competition 2026, namely Clara Sutanto (Digital Business) with a research paper titled "Caring for the Forgotten Generation" and Darlene Jovela Rachmat (Information Technology) with a research paper titled "The Digital Divide in Healthcare: How Accessible is AI in Rural Indonesia?". Both works highlighted relevant social and technological issues, applying an analytical approach to real challenges in society alongside potential digital innovation-based solutions.
"At Sinar Mas Land, we believe that investing in young talent is one of the most meaningful contributions to Indonesia's future. Through our support for the NextGen Undergraduate Scholarship Program at Monash University, Indonesia, we strive to expand access to world-class education and empower the next generation with the global knowledge, skills, and mindset required to thrive in an increasingly competitive international landscape. This initiative aligns with the Indonesian Government's vision to realise 'Indonesia Emas 2045' through the development of an excellent, innovative, and globally competitive workforce," said Irawan Harahap, CEO of Digital Tech Ecosystem & Development at Sinar Mas Land.
"As a Township of World-Class Education, BSD City continues to strengthen its position as a leading hub for education, innovation, and technology by introducing international-standard educational institutions, industry partners, and a dynamic learning ecosystem. We hope this collaboration will help foster future leaders capable of delivering a real impact for Indonesia and contributing to the nation's long-term economic growth and global competitiveness," he added.
The NextGen Digital Impact Competition took place amidst Indonesia's growing need for digital talent who not only master technology but also possess analytical skills, problem-solving capabilities, and a deep understanding of business and social contexts. The success of this program serves as proof that synergy between educational institutions and industry not only equips the younger generation to face dynamic technological developments but also opens learning spaces that hone critical thinking, research-based analysis, and comprehensive insights into digital ecosystem challenges.
Darlene Jovela Rachmat (centre), winner of the information technology category
Through this initiative, Monash University, Indonesia, together with Sinar Mas Land, is committed to continuously developing adaptive young talent who are capable of producing impactful ideas and ready to contribute to the advancement of Indonesia's digital ecosystem.
About Monash University, Indonesia
Located in the southwest of Jakarta within the rapidly growing Bumi Serpong Damai (BSD) City, Monash University, Indonesia offers access to research collaboration, professional development, and commercial cooperation among academic and business communities in Indonesia. As the first international university with a physical campus in Indonesia, Monash maintains close ties with local institutions, the government, and industry. Monash also has an alumni network spanning more than 10,000 graduates from Indonesia.
Established in 2020, Monash University, Indonesia continues to expand its educational and research reach. Currently, Monash University, Indonesia offers opportunities for students in bachelor, master, and PhD programs, as well as the Inspire Doctoral Scholarship program. Monash University, Indonesia also contributes to building the nation's research ecosystem by connecting local and international researchers. Furthermore, our researchers collaborate with industry partners to deliver masterclass and executive education programs.
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