Semarang – The Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP), Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES), has once again demonstrated its commitment to strengthening democratic education through active participation in the Votecast program organized by the General Election Commission (KPU) of Central Java Province. Hosted by Nunung, this educational podcast aims to enhance democratic literacy, voter education, and public participation in fostering high-quality electoral processes.
The event, held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at the KPU Central Java Podcast Studio, featured Dr. Cahyo Seftyono, S.Sos., M.A., a lecturer in the Political Science Study Program at FISIP UNNES, as the keynote speaker. During the session entitled “Campus–KPU Synergy in Building Smart Voters,” Dr. Cahyo emphasized the importance of collaboration between higher education institutions and election management bodies in fostering political awareness, particularly among young people.
According to Cahyo, universities occupy a highly strategic position in cultivating democratic values among students. As academic institutions that closely engage with young citizens, universities provide an effective environment for instilling democratic principles, strengthening students’ understanding of their rights and responsibilities as citizens, and promoting a critical and responsible political culture. This role is increasingly significant given that university students constitute a substantial proportion of first-time voters, who also represent one of the largest voter demographics in Indonesia.
Furthermore, Cahyo explained that the Political Science Study Program at FISIP UNNES makes a tangible contribution to democratic education through a range of relevant courses, including Elections, Parliament, and Political Party Systems. These courses not only provide students with a solid theoretical understanding of political institutions and electoral systems but also equip them with the analytical skills needed to critically examine democratic processes. Such competencies prepare students to become agents of change who actively contribute to promoting democratic and integrity-driven elections.
Through the Votecast program, the Central Java KPU and FISIP UNNES seek to broaden the reach of political education by utilizing digital media that resonate with younger generations. This collaboration reflects a strategic partnership between academia and the election management body in fostering informed, critical, and actively engaged citizens who contribute positively to democratic life.
In closing, Cahyo expressed his hope that the partnership between FISIP UNNES and the Central Java KPU will continue through various initiatives in political education and democratic literacy. Through sustained collaboration, it is expected that more members of society—particularly young people—will develop stronger political awareness and actively contribute to building a more meaningful, inclusive, and high-quality democracy in Indonesia.
