The era of Society and Industry 5.0 brings a wide range of challenges for Generation Z, affecting both social and economic aspects. The rise of technology and the current demographic explosion certainly do not provide comfort. Across many regions in Indonesia, we can already see job competition growing increasingly fierce. Therefore, it is essential for Generation Z to rethink their strategies, especially in pursuing knowledge.

Today, holding a degree in a single unilateral field of expertise no longer guarantees a secure life. This is even more true with the rapid advancement of AI and Machine Learning, which are capable of accomplishing tasks efficiently. Time waits for no one.

Life today demands that we utilize more than 80% of our potential. Fortunately, in this era of technology—where freedom lies literally in our hands—acquiring diverse skill sets has become much easier through the use of various applications and software. For UNDIRA students who wish to explore interdisciplinary skill sets, here are several applications worth mastering:

1. Capcut

Capcut is a video editing software that helps develop editing skills. While it does not offer the full editing freedom of Adobe After Effects or Premiere Pro, its flexibility and user-friendly interface open the way for UNDIRA students to grow into professional video editors—whether as a main career or a side hustle.

2. Canva

A multifunctional graphic design platform, Canva provides accessibility for users at all levels, from beginner to advanced designers. Unlike its “big brother,” Photoshop, Canva enables real-time collaboration on design projects. Moreover, its simplicity makes it a preferred choice among freelancers working in social media as well as junior graphic designers. Even engineering people has to be creative enoughb to be able to design their own concepts out in order to be able to appeal to investors of their projects. 

3. Visual Studio Code (VSC) & Google Colab

For UNDIRA students interested in coding and software development, VSC and Google Colab provide beginner-friendly, time-efficient, and free (open-source) platforms. VSC includes helpful features such as Intellisense (similar to autocorrect), while both applications offer debugging tools that allow programs to be tested and run on the same day. Google Colab also integrates seamlessly with Google Workspace, enabling coding projects to be stored safely in the cloud.

4. TinkerCAD, FreeCAD & Blender

These CAD-based applications provide free design solutions without requiring subscriptions. TinkerCAD and FreeCAD offer greater accessibility compared to AutoCAD, which is considered an advanced BIM system.

Meanwhile, Blender expands possibilities through 3D modeling features, enabling users to create detailed 3D models—ranging from characters to buildings. Blender also includes animation rendering tools, empowering UNDIRA students to produce independent 3D-based mini-movies. However, Blender’s main drawback lies in its heavy computational requirements, as it demands high-performance laptops or PCs to function optimally.

5. Excel & Google Sheets

It is no surprise that Excel and Google Sheets are included on this list. Beyond simplifying data analysis, many jobs today specifically require at least basic proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets.

Even though the majority of jobs are now simplified by AI, mastering skills remains the top priority for developing competence—especially in the era of Society and Industry 5.0, which demands us to take on more than one role. Remember, UNDIRA friends: over-reliance on AI not only fosters indiscipline but also undermines our integrity in creating and innovating.

Mastery of multidisciplinary skills is the key—not only to enriching one’s knowledge capacity, but also to maintaining personal relevance and sustainability in this dynamic and highly competitive era.