Students' critical thinking should be purely a catalyst for change, not a political vehicle for certain parties seeking power. Therefore, student activists must deliver statements based on data and facts, not simply express opinions according to orders.
This assertion was made by the spokesperson for the Young Seudang of North Aceh (Indonesia), Zulfadli, in response to statements claiming to be student activists in Banda Aceh. Zulfadli assessed that some statements were tendentious, derived from conversations, and suspected of being exploited by certain parties when they were exaggerated and not based on facts.
"Student criticism must remain within intellectual boundaries and be based on research. Assuming a public official fails to understand their primary duties and functions is not a light statement. It is a serious accusation that should be supported by data, performance indicators, and clear policy references," said Zulfadli in North Aceh on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
According to him, criticism based solely on situational perceptions—for example, by observing disaster conditions and then concluding that the overall policy is flawed—does not reflect the academic criticism that should be the hallmark of the student movement.
He explained that replacing department heads with insensitivity to disasters is a narrative that tends to be populist, but problematic. In government practice, disaster management and bureaucratic management can go hand in hand.
"In a crisis situation, the government actually needs a solid and responsive team. Rotating officials can be part of the solution, not necessarily a problem," he said.
Zulfadli also warned that basic criticism without scientific knowledge has the potential to open up space for political interests.
"Students must be careful not to become a tool for legitimizing certain interests. Without data, criticism can lose legitimacy and turn into agitation," he stressed.
He added that the student movement has long been known for its strength not because of its loud voices, but because of the strength of its arguments and intellectual foundation. "Without that, the student movement will not gain legitimacy and popular support," he said.
Furthermore, he argued, dragging the Aceh Regional Secretary's position into practical political framing without clear evidence demonstrates a flawed understanding of government structure.
"The Regional Secretary is an administrative engine, not an electoral political actor. Accusing him of being neutral without a strong basis is tantamount to building opinions based on assumptions," he explained.
Zulfadli emphasized that students still have an important role as social control, but must exercise it responsibly.
"Students are not expected to remain silent, but are expected to be right. Criticism must be born from in-depth research, clear analysis, and responsible courage," he said.
He also highlighted the conditions of communities facing the impact of disasters, stating that they need constructive criticism, not just noise.
"In a situation like this, society needs clarity and solutions. If students want to remain relevant, their criticism must be data-based, not just aimless, loud talk," Zulfadli concluded.[]
Photos of student activities at Malikussaleh University in North Aceh Regency, Indonesia.