UKDW and BPD DIY Collaborate to Boost Financial Literacy Among University Students
In a joint effort to enhance financial awareness among young adults, Universitas Kristen Duta Wacana (UKDW) Yogyakarta partnered with Bank BPD DIY to host a Financial Literacy and Consumer Protection Seminar on Friday, June 20, 2025. Held at the Rev. Dr. Rudy Budiman Lecture Hall, the session aimed to equip students with a stronger understanding of personal finance, consumer rights, and workplace readiness — especially in the context of the banking industry.
The seminar featured expert speakers including Ir. Hudan Mulyawan, S.T., M.Kom., IPM (Managing Director of BPD DIY), Efendi Sutopo Yuwono, S.E., M.M. (Head of the Bank’s Main Branch), and Dr. Veny Hidayat, M.Psi., Psychologist (Motivator, Assessor, Trainer, and HR Consultant).
In her opening remarks, UKDW Rector Dr.-Ing. Wiyatiningsih, S.T., M.T. expressed appreciation for the continued partnership with Bank BPD DIY, especially for its scholarship contributions that help expand access to quality education. “We are grateful for this initiative to strengthen financial literacy among our students. It’s vital they understand how to manage and plan their finances wisely,” she noted.
Ir. Hudan Mulyawan shared insights on the role of BPD DIY, a regionally owned bank operated by local governments across the Yogyakarta Special Region. “Our vision is to become a trusted, exceptional, and community-preferred bank. We are committed to offering ethical financial solutions while supporting regional economic growth, particularly through MSME development,” he explained.
Efendi Sutopo Yuwono focused on practical guidance for students through his presentation, “Consumer Protection and Financial Planning for Students.” He cautioned students against falling victim to rising online frauds, including illicit online loans and gambling platforms. “Stay alert when contacted by unknown numbers, asked for personal data, offered unrealistic investment returns, or pressured into making fast transactions. These are red flags,” he warned.
Complementing the financial sessions, Dr. Veny Hidayat provided a motivational talk titled “Steps to Becoming a Great Job Seeker.” She encouraged students to embrace the process of self-development and career building. “Success doesn’t come instantly. You need to continuously sharpen your skills, build a supportive environment, stay disciplined, and evaluate yourself regularly,” she said.
She also emphasized the growing importance of personal branding in today’s competitive and digital job market. According to Dr. Veny, showcasing one’s professional strengths, personal values, and soft skills through social media or online portfolios can significantly increase early career opportunities.
The event underscored UKDW’s commitment to preparing students not just academically, but also financially and professionally, ensuring they graduate ready to thrive in real-world environments. [humasukdw/tr.drr]
