IPDN Crucial for Civil Servant Professionalism and National Resilience, Says Minister Tito

Indonesian Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian emphasized the critical role of the Institute of Public Administration (IPDN) in bolstering the professionalism of civil servants and ensuring national resilience through good governance. Speaking at a general lecture at the IPDN campus in Sumedang, West Java, Karnavian explained that a professional government apparatus is vital for a nation's survival.

“

In an empire or a country that has lasted over 200 years, three elements are always found: a strong military, strong police and intelligence, and a professional civil service that can administer the state effectively and efficiently.

Drawing from historical examples, he noted that enduring states or empires are consistently supported by three pillars: a strong military, robust police and intelligence forces, and a professional civil service capable of efficient administration. Karnavian pointed out that Indonesia's approximately 4.7 million civil servants rely heavily on IPDN graduates, particularly in regional governance.

The minister elaborated that IPDN's educational model extends beyond academic learning in public administration. It also focuses on cultivating physical fitness, mental fortitude, discipline, and loyalty among its students. This comprehensive training makes IPDN graduates highly sought after by regional governments seeking to improve their local administration.

“

And that is what makes regional heads like them. IPDN graduates are in high demand... Because besides their knowledge of public administration, they are also trained to have good physical condition, loyalty, discipline, and are ready to carry out their duties.

Beyond formal education, IPDN is actively developing into a national hub for civil servant training. It offers vocational programs for regional officials, village heads, and members of regional legislative councils. Furthermore, the Ministry of Home Affairs, in collaboration with the Education Fund Management Institution (LPDP), is enhancing IPDN graduates' capabilities through overseas scholarship programs. This initiative includes curriculum additions in English and preparation for international tests like IELTS and TOEFL, with 52 graduates already studying abroad and another 100 preparing for LPDP tests.

“

Up to now, 52 fresh graduate IPDN alumni have gone abroad, including to Australia, England, and America. Around 100 more are preparing for the LPDP test. We hope that after returning, they can become agents of change for other civil servants.