HARIANEXPRESS – The Kediri City Government, East Java, is strongly encouraging all members of the Kediri City Scout Movement to continuously adapt to technological advancements and evolving times. This push comes with a firm reminder to always uphold the core values of scouting.
K.H. Qowimuddin Thoha, Deputy Head of the Branch Guiding Council (Mabicab) of the Kediri City Scout Movement, stated on Friday in Kediri that the Scout Movement has played a vital role for over six decades in shaping independent and caring young Indonesians.
Scouts Must Remain Relevant in Digital Age
Entering its 65th year, the Scout Movement must remain relevant to the current developments in the youth world. The Deputy Mayor of Kediri emphasized that rapid technological progress and the influx of information present both opportunities and challenges for the younger generation.
Scout members, therefore, need to understand information developments, recognize opportunities, and actively participate in creating change. K.H. Qowimuddin Thoha, affectionately known as Gus Qowim, highlighted the importance of becoming a generation of scouts who are digitally literate and aware of opportunities.
“I want to invite all the younger members to become a generation of Scouts who are information-savvy, era-savvy, and opportunity-savvy,” he said.
Gus Qowim also stressed that scouting activities must align with the characteristics of young people and technological advancements. He urged the use of technology to make scout activities more engaging, including producing positive content about scouting.
Integrating Youth Interests and Upholding Values
Various fields that attract young people, such as the creative economy, technology, sports, arts, and social activities, can be integrated into scout programs. However, he warned that technological progress should not alter the identity of scout members.
The principles of Tri Satya and Dasa Darma must remain guiding principles, even when interacting in the digital space. This spirit of adaptation aligns with the theme of the 65th Scout Day, which is “Solidifying Organizational Steps to Support Food Self-Sufficiency Towards Golden Indonesia 2045.”
This theme indicates that scouts must play a tangible role in providing solutions for society, including strengthening food security. The Kediri City Scout Movement has already initiated urban farming activities, from the Branch Quarter (Kwarcab) level to the front line units.
“Scouts must become part of the youth who create the future,” K.H. Qowimuddin Thoha stated.
