Written by: Rabiatul Adawiyah Marzuki (2nd year student, Politics & Government Programme)
The Forum Bicara Teori Politik dari Perspektif Gen Z was successfully held on 10 December 2024, featuring a hybrid format that combined physical participation at Tutorial Room 19, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSH), and virtual engagement through live streaming on TikTok and Instagram. This dual approach was designed to cater to the preferences of Gen Z, leveraging digital platforms to make political theories more relatable and accessible to a younger audience.
Organized by the POLGOV Society, the forum aimed to bridge the gap between academic discourse and the lived experiences of Gen Z, emphasizing the relevance of political theories in understanding contemporary issues. It featured insightful discussions by a diverse panel of speakers, ranging from seasoned academics to young influencers active in the socio-political landscape. These speakers covered a variety of topics, including democracy in the digital era, the role of Gen Z in shaping political movements, and the significance of theoretical foundations in guiding effective governance.
The forum stood out for its innovative approach to audience engagement. Interactive elements, such as live polls and Q&A sessions via social media platforms, ensured that participants, whether attending physically or virtually, could actively contribute to the discussion. By integrating TikTok and Instagram as primary outreach tools, the organizers not only expanded their reach but also showcased a forward-thinking model for academic events aiming to connect with younger demographics.
Rabiatul Adawiyah Marzuki, the Program Director, expressed her immense pride in the success of the event and the efforts of the organizing team. Reflecting on the forum, she remarked:
“This forum was a remarkable milestone for the POLGOV Society. Our primary objective was to make political theories approachable and engaging for Gen Z, to demonstrate that these concepts are not merely abstract ideas but practical tools for analyzing and influencing real-world events. Through a hybrid format that blended physical interaction with digital outreach, we succeeded in creating a space where participants could not only learn but also voice their perspectives. The overwhelming participation and feedback we received highlight the potential of such initiatives to inspire meaningful dialogue and intellectual curiosity. This event is proof of what we can achieve when creativity and dedication come together.”
Professor Datu Dr Neilson Mersat, a distinguished academic and one of the forum’s prominent supporters, lauded the POLGOV Society’s efforts, stating:
“The Forum Bicara Teori Politik dari Perspektif Gen Z is a groundbreaking initiative that transformed traditional discussions on political theory into dynamic, inclusive conversations. By leveraging TikTok and Instagram, the POLGOV Society effectively broadened the forum’s reach and made complex theories accessible to Gen Z. This innovative approach serves as a model for future academic events, fostering critical discourse among youth and highlighting their role in shaping governance and society.”
The forum achieved its objectives by providing participants with a deeper understanding of political theories and their applicability to modern challenges. It highlighted the importance of adapting traditional academic discussions to the communication styles and preferences of contemporary audiences, particularly Gen Z.
The Forum Bicara Teori Politik dari Perspektif Gen Z not only enriched the intellectual horizons of its participants but also set a benchmark for future academic events. By blending innovation with academic rigor, the POLGOV Society has demonstrated how meaningful engagement can be achieved, inspiring more youth-centric initiatives in the realm of political education.