Jonan and Grab CEO Highlight Campus-Industry Gap, Business Curricula Need Change

The gap between higher education and the demands of the modern workforce is a pressing issue, according to prominent business figures Ignasius Jonan and Neneng Goenadi, CEO of Grab Indonesia. Speaking at CEO Talks 2026 hosted by the Faculty of Economics and Business at Universitas Airlangga, they urged for a swift transformation in university learning approaches to meet evolving industry needs.

Jonan advocated for greater integration of industry practitioners into the educational process, suggesting that at least one-third of university faculty, particularly at the postgraduate level, should comprise relevant industry professionals. He believes this would provide students with crucial real-world insights beyond theoretical knowledge. Jonan also touched upon the importance of faculty welfare, stating that sustainable educational quality cannot be achieved without adequate compensation and support for those managing educational institutions, drawing a parallel with global institutions like the London Business School.

Goenadi emphasized the escalating challenges for higher education due to the widespread adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI). With AI making theoretical knowledge easily accessible, she argued that universities must shift their focus towards cultivating skills that AI cannot easily replicate. "Transformation is urgent. Theory can now be learned from anywhere using AI, but soft skills and practical experience cannot be replaced," Goenadi stated. She identified interpersonal abilities, critical thinking, adaptability, communication, and real-world problem-solving as key differentiators for graduates entering the job market. Goenadi also suggested that internship programs should be expanded, and opportunities for faculty to gain direct industry experience should be created.

“

Transformation is urgent. Theory can now be learned from anywhere using AI, but soft skills and practical experience cannot be replaced.