EduAsiaNews, Bandung – The Rector of the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), Prof. Dr. Ir. Tatacipta Dirgantara, M.T., invited students of the 2026 ITB Community Service Program (KKN) to collaborate and leave a meaningful legacy for society during the third day of the KKN 2026 briefing session, held at the ITB Ganesha Campus on Saturday (April 11, 2026). The event was attended by more than 500 students in person at the Ganesha Campus and was also attended online by students from the Jatinangor and Cirebon campuses.
Through a presentation titled “Leading with Action and Collaborative Synergy to Create Real Impact,” the Rector emphasized that KKN serves as an essential learning space that cannot be obtained within the classroom.
He expressed his hope that students would gain valuable experiences throughout the implementation of KKN. “KKN requires students to step out of their comfort zones and engage with diverse community environments. It is there that sensitivity, empathy, and character are developed,” he said.
Prof. Tata also highlighted ITB’s strong commitment to the KKN program as part of student character development. Through this activity, students are expected to gain comprehensive learning experiences, engage in dialogue with various stakeholders, and find solutions to real-world challenges in the field.
He further emphasized the importance of multidisciplinary teamwork skills. This aligns with today’s increasingly complex work environment, which demands cross-disciplinary collaboration, where decisions are no longer made individually but through teamwork.
“KKN is a space to practice organization, contribute, and leave behind works and a legacy that can provide long-term benefits,” he said.
He also noted that young people, as the next generation, play a strategic role as the driving force of national progress, particularly in efforts to escape the middle-income trap.
Higher education institutions are not only places for academic learning but also platforms for character building and personal development. Through KKN, students are encouraged to develop leadership, social awareness, teamwork skills, and the courage to step outside their comfort zones.
“Success lies outside the comfort zone. When we are willing to step forward, we grow, become more adaptive, and are not afraid to try new things,” he said.
He also stressed that KKN is not merely a community service activity, but also a learning process for students to grow personally and socially.
