Semarang, March 20, 2025 – The worsening environmental damage is directly impacting the future of younger generations. From declining air quality and clean water crises to climate change disrupting agriculture and public health, the consequences are severe. Despite not being involved in past decisions, today’s youth will bear the brunt of these impacts. Therefore, young people must raise their voices and show their concern for the planet. Through small steps like joining environmental communities, spreading awareness through social media, or creating innovations that support sustainable living, youth can become a vital force for change.
Diah Ayu Ratna Sari, Head of Renewable Energy at the Central Java Energy and Mineral Resources Agency, emphasized the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration, including youth involvement through technological innovation, entrepreneurship, awareness campaigns, social action, and as education agents.
“Young people play multiple roles in the energy transition. They can drive technological innovation through research, engage in entrepreneurship with eco-friendly business models such as solar panel installation services, raise public awareness about renewable energy, empower local communities by utilizing local energy potential, and lead green energy campaigns within communities and educational institutions,” said Diah during the Kick-off Central Java Youth Sustainability Forum 2025 on Thursday (03/20/2025).
Nurul Fadilah, Regional Program Staff for Sustainable Energy Access at IESR, highlighted that students and young professionals have opportunities to boost the green economy by developing green skills and pursuing careers in the green job sector.
“The energy transition will create new job opportunities in the renewable energy sector, with an estimated 3.2 million jobs available by 2050. This opens significant opportunities for young people to work in sustainable sectors, commonly referred to as green jobs,” Nurul added.
Meanwhile, Sri Puryono, Professor at the Graduate School of Diponegoro University (UNDIP), explained that universities and research institutions play a crucial role in equipping young generations with green skills. This can be achieved through applied research, innovation hubs, and industry collaboration to support sustainability.
“Collaboration between academia and industry is key to preparing young professionals for the challenges of the energy transition. Through research-based and innovation-driven education, young people gain not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills that can be applied in renewable energy development,” Sri stated.
On the other hand, Arif Hendro, Regional Sales Manager at PT SUN Energy, pointed out that career opportunities in solar energy are vast, considering Central Java’s enormous solar energy potential. These opportunities are open to both recent graduates and experienced professionals, covering roles in business development, sales, technical support, and marketing communications.
“The solar energy potential in Central Java is immense, offering vast career opportunities for both fresh graduates and experienced professionals. We need young talents who are ready to contribute to business development, sales, technical support, and marketing communications in the renewable energy sector,” Arif said.