IPB University Rector Delivers Keynote Lecture at the Southeast Asian Leadership Development Program for Higher Education Institutions

Bogor, 23 October 2025 – Leadership is a crucial foundation in building adaptive, visionary, and resilient universities capable of navigating global challenges and rapid changes. In this spirit, IPB University hosted the 7th Leadership Development Program for Higher Education Institutions (LDP-HEIs) in Southeast Asia, held from 21 to 23 October 2025. The program was jointly organized by the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEAMEO SEARCA) and The HEAD Foundation.

Prof. Arif Satria, Rector of IPB University, delivered a keynote lecture titled “Bridging Tradition and Innovation: Perspective on Leadership” on 23 October 2025. The session was attended by 31 mid-level university managers from six countries—Cambodia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia.

“Universities are key drivers of innovation and human development. IPB University is committed to becoming an Innopreneurial University focused on tropical agriculture, marine sciences, and biosciences. This commitment is realized through two core pillars—technopreneurship and sociopreneurship—that drive innovation to transform society,” stated Prof. Arif Satria.

During the discussion session, participants expressed great interest in IPB University’s innovative approaches to community empowerment and research commercialization. The event was also attended by Dr. Nova Ramos, Head of Training for Development Unit, Education and Collective Learning Department, SEARCA; Ms. Michelle Leong, Senior Manager for Capacity Building Programmes, The HEAD Foundation; as well as program facilitators from Singapore.

“Prof. Arif’s keynote lecture inspired participants to understand that true leaders must have the courage to drive change,” remarked Dr. N. Varaprasad from Singapore, Director of the LDP-HEIs Program.

IPB University’s involvement in this regional leadership program underscores its strong commitment to strengthening networks and leadership capacities in higher education across Southeast Asia. Through its active engagement, IPB continues to advance sustainable transformation for the progress of education and society in the region.