In a classroom, an unusual atmosphere prevailed. Dozens of young people from various backgrounds sat in a circle, engaged in serious discussions, occasionally debating, then laughing. They were not just attending training; they were learning to become leaders.

A total of 60 participants, consisting of university students and high school students from Surabaya, took part in a Youth Leadership Development activity held over two days, April 23–24, 2026. This program was initiated by the Surabaya City Culture, Youth, Sports, and Tourism Office in collaboration with Wijaya Putra University as the host.

Unlike ordinary training, this activity was not limited to theory. Participants were directly faced with simulations of real problems commonly encountered in youth environments, from managing organizations to promoting local tourism potential. This sharpened their critical thinking and decision-making skills.

The program was intentionally designed to span different educational levels. Meetings between high school and university students created a more dynamic learning space.

“High school students can learn from the experience of university students, while university students also learn to understand the perspectives of their younger counterparts. This is where leadership grows—from interaction and collaboration,” he said.

60 students and university students in Surabaya took part in a two-day leadership development program. They were trained through real-case simulations to become adaptive young leaders in the digital era.

For participants, this experience felt different. Calista, a student from SMAN 12 Surabaya, said she gained a new perspective on the meaning of leadership. She was impressed by how openly university students shared their organizational experiences.

“I now understand that a leader is not just someone who gives orders, but also someone who must listen to and understand their team,” Calista said enthusiastically.

Bayu Tri, a student at Wijaya Putra University, felt the same way. He considered the simulation session the most challenging and memorable part.

“We were faced with real-life situations. We had to make quick decisions while still considering the consequences. This trained us to think more maturely,” he explained.

The Vice Rector for Student Affairs at Wijaya Putra University described this activity as an initial step in creating young leaders who are not only academically excellent but also strong in character.

According to him, cross-generational meeting spaces like this are important for building confidence and networks from an early age.

This development program is part of the Surabaya City Government’s long-term strategy to prepare young people to face the challenges of the digital era—not only technologically proficient but also possessing integrity and collaboration skills.

Going forward, the office plans to expand similar programs to more schools and youth communities. This step is also part of the effort to realize Surabaya as a City of Achievers by 2027.

Behind the discussions, simulations, and laughter of the participants lies a great hope: the emergence of young leaders who will bring real change to their city.

Surabaya

Surabaya is Indonesia’s second-largest city and the capital of East Java, known for its key role in the country’s struggle for independence. Its name is famously tied to the Battle of Surabaya in November 1945, a major conflict between Indonesian independence fighters and British forces that galvanized national resistance. Today, it serves as a major commercial port and industrial hub, blending colonial-era architecture with modern development.

Surabaya City Culture, Youth, Sports, and Tourism Office

The Surabaya City Culture, Youth, Sports, and Tourism Office is a local government agency in Surabaya, Indonesia, responsible for promoting and managing the city’s cultural heritage, youth programs, sports initiatives, and tourism development. Established to support Surabaya’s identity as a historic port city—known for its role in the Indonesian National Revolution, particularly the Battle of Surabaya in 1945—the office works to preserve local traditions while fostering modern recreational and cultural activities. It oversees attractions like the Heroes Monument and House of Sampoerna, aiming to boost both domestic and international tourism.

Wijaya Putra University

Wijaya Putra University is a private university located in Surabaya, Indonesia, established to contribute to higher education and community development in the region. It was founded with a focus on providing accessible and quality education, particularly in fields such as engineering, economics, and social sciences. The university continues to grow, emphasizing academic excellence and the cultivation of skilled graduates to meet local and national needs.

SMAN 12 Surabaya

SMAN 12 Surabaya is a public senior high school located in Surabaya, Indonesia, established to provide quality secondary education in the region. The school has developed a reputation for academic achievement and extracurricular activities, contributing to the local educational landscape since its founding. While specific historical details are limited, it remains an important institution for students in the city.

Surabaya City Government

The Surabaya City Government is the administrative authority governing Surabaya, Indonesia’s second-largest city and a major port. Historically, it has played a key role in the city’s development since the colonial era, notably managing post-independence reconstruction and modernization. Today, it oversees urban planning, public services, and cultural heritage preservation, reflecting Surabaya’s growth as a hub of commerce and history.