UNS – The Faculty of Engineering (FT) at Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta hosted its flagship program on Friday (11/4/2025). It was CEO Talk #3. The event featured Nandi Juliyanto, President Director of PT Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia (TMMIN). It carried the theme “Beyond Zero: Toyota’s Approach Towards Carbon Neutrality.” It took place at the Main Seminar Room of the Ir. RPM. Kasifudin Building, FT UNS.
Emphasizing Soft Skills as Key to Professional Success
In his opening speech, UNS Rector Prof. Dr. Hartono, dr., M.Si. highlighted the importance of connecting academia with industry. He emphasized that academic achievement alone is not sufficient for professional success. Instead, mastering essential soft skills, such as leadership, negotiation, and communication, is crucial.
“Leadership, lobbying, negotiation skills, and personal approaches are unique challenges. The presence of professionals like Mr. Nandi helps students learn directly from real-world experiences,” he explained.
Dr. Ir. Fajar Sri Handayani, S.T., M.T., Head of the Internship and Career Development Center (CDC) at FT UNS, shared remarks. She emphasized the significance of the event.
“CEO Talk provides students with real exposure to industry leaders. This is not just a seminar—it helps shape their academic character,” she said.
Industry Insights from Toyota’s Sustainability Journey
During his session, Nandi Juliyanto shared valuable insights into communication, networking, and professional development. He encouraged students to balance their idealism with practical realities.
“It’s okay to have idealism, but we must also face reality. Never underestimate anything—communicate and expand your network. Toyota Beyond Zero is not just about emissions but about making a positive social impact,” he stated.
The CEO Talk #3 broadened students’ understanding of the manufacturing industry and the global push toward Net Zero Emissions (NZE). Toyota’s commitment to carbon neutrality is evident through a multi-pathway strategy and life cycle product approach. This showcased a real example of how industries are embracing sustainability.
High Student Engagement and Real Career Opportunities
Student enthusiasm was notably high. To further engage participants, Toyota rewarded 20 top-performing students in the CEO Talk quiz. Toyota offered them an exclusive opportunity to visit the company. Fatihah Asy Syfa, an Industrial Engineering student, expressed her excitement.
“Toyota’s visit gave us deeper insights into the company’s vision and opportunities. The internship information was especially useful,” she shared.
Similarly, Faiz Atthalah, a Chemical Engineering student, appreciated the session’s relevance to his field.
“The speaker shared a similar academic background, which gave me a broader perspective on career opportunities. The internship discussion was particularly insightful,” he noted.
The CEO Talk series, launched in December 2024, reflects FT UNS’s commitment to bridging academia and industry. Through partnerships with national and international leaders, the program enhances students’ academic and personal potential. Moreover, the program supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education. It equips students with relevant skills for future careers. Additionally, it contributes to SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy. This is achieved through its discussion on Toyota’s transition to low-emission energy and carbon neutrality.
HUMAS UNS
