The “Design Thinking for Freshman Program” was a pioneering two-day event aimed at immersing first-year university students in the core principles of design thinking, emphasizing practical problem solving and social impacts. This initiative introduced students to the basics of design thinking empathy for users, problem definition, and solution ideation by directly involving them with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that tackle various societal issues.

During the event, students worked closely with these 7 NGOs: Foodcycle, Enter Nusantara, Green Genius, Borneo Orangutan, Survival Foundation, Antheia Project, Perkumpulan Pelestari Indonesia, and SINTAS Nusantara to gain insights into and analyze urgent social problems. This hands-on experience fostered a profound sense of empathy and a practical grasp of the issues. Under the guidance of mentors, the students advanced through the stages of design thinking, ultimately creating innovative solutions.

The program concluded with an exhibition where students showcased their solutions to the participating NGOs. Each proposal was assessed based on its practicality, creativity, and potential impacts, with feedback provided by the NGOs.

The program introduced an innovative and forward-looking perspective with the theme, “In 2.5 Years We Will Be Ready To Become Professional Workers or Entrepreneurs”. This approach was designed to encourage students to begin thinking critically about their future roles and responsibilities in both professional and entrepreneurial contexts. By framing their learning journey within this timeline, the students were inspired to envision how they could apply their newly acquired design thinking skills to real-world challenges, whether as part of an established organization or as the founders of their own businesses.

Furthermore, the event provided a unique opportunity for consultation and mentorship, as students engaged with alumni and current students who already have experience in family businesses, startups, or entrepreneurial ventures. These discussions offered valuable insights into the practical application of design thinking and problem-solving within different business environments. By interacting with individuals who have firsthand experience in building and managing businesses, the students gained a broader perspective on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in their future careers.

The emphasis on future preparedness gave students a proactive mindset, helping them see the relevance of their current education to their long-term goals. As they worked through problem-solving exercises, they were guided to not only address immediate challenges but also consider the broader implications of their solutions in a professional setting. This process enabled them to develop a deeper understanding of how design thinking can drive innovation, improve processes, and create value in any industry or venture they choose to pursue.

In addition to equipping students with valuable problem-solving skills, the program positioned them to be future-ready by reinforcing the importance of adaptability, creativity, and strategic thinking. As a result, the event helped prepare them for diverse career paths, whether they aspire to become professional workers, leaders, or entrepreneurs, ensuring that they are well-prepared to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global workforce.