UPNVJ Public Relations - Veteran National Development University Jakarta (UPNVJ) strengthens educational diplomacy through active participation in the Asia Africa Youth Forum (AAYF) 2025 in Bandung, October 15-18, 2025. The forum, which commemorates the 70th anniversary of the Asia Africa Conference (KAA), carries the theme "The Role of Youth in Encouraging Global South Cooperation in the Fields of Trade, Tourism, and Investment."
AAYF 2025, hosted by the Bandung City Government, served as a strategic platform for youth from 55 countries to engage in dialogue and collaboration. The UPNVJ delegation, comprised of international staff and students, actively contributed to strengthening global networks and supporting the spirit of South-South cooperation.
The event, held at the Merdeka Building and the Savoy Homann Hotel, focused on three main pillars: tourism, trade, and investment (TTI). The UPNVJ delegation participated in a series of activities, including a cultural diplomacy talk show, a discussion on sustainable tourism, and a youth entrepreneurship session.
The first day opened with a ceremony at Gedung Merdeka, followed by a talk show themed “Tourism for the Future: Youth-Driven Culture, Sustainability, and Destination Development.” Speakers including Derry Aman (ASEAN Ambassador), Al Busyra Basnur (Indonesian Ambassador to the African Union), and Salman Subakat (CEO of Paragon Corp) inspired participants with innovative ideas.
On the second day, discussions focused on tourism digitalization, strengthening technology-based MSMEs, and inclusive investment. UPNVJ students also developed policy recommendations based on youth perspectives, demonstrating the university's commitment to developing the capacity of the younger generation.
The highlight of the event was the Asia Africa Festival & Market on Jalan Asia Afrika. Cultural booths and youth-run MSMEs provided a platform for cross-cultural interaction. This activity showcased the collaborative spirit of the younger generation in creative and transformative ways.
According to UPNVJ Chancellor, Dr. Anter Venus, this participation reflects the university's dedication to advancing educational diplomacy and the values of peace, tolerance, and solidarity among nations, as a legacy of the Asian-African Conference (AAC).
UPNVJ's participation in AAYF 2025 strengthens the university's position as a pioneer in higher education supporting youth-driven international cooperation. This forum not only broadens students' horizons but also rekindles the spirit of the Asian-African Conference (AAC) through innovative and inclusive cross-border collaboration.