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Deputy for Protocol, Press, and Media Affairs at the Presidential Secretariat, Yusuf Permana, in his official statement, conveyed that the meeting aimed to strengthen communication between the government and the academic community in order to reinforce strategic collaboration in the sectors of higher education, research, and innovation.

"A panel discussion between the President and academics will also be held to discuss concrete steps for enhancing synergy between the education sector and national policy," said Yusuf on Wednesday (March 12, 2025).

This meeting served as a significant moment for university leaders to voice their aspirations, ideas, and solutions in support of advancing education in Indonesia.

During the meeting, discussions focused on the role of higher education institutions in accelerating national progress through research, innovation, and the enhancement of human resource quality.

The Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Mendikti Saintek), Prof. Brian Yuliarto, S.T., M.Eng., Ph.D., explained that President Prabowo emphasized the importance of mastering science and technology as a key factor in realizing Indonesia's vision of becoming a developed nation.

"The President stressed that only nations that master science and technology can achieve prosperity," said Prof. Brian.

^{Photo courtesy of the Presidential Secretariat Bureau of the Republic of Indonesia.}

The President also recognized the strategic role of higher education institutions in advancing research and innovation based industries. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of upholding academic integrity by instilling an anti-corruption culture among the younger generation.

"Indonesia’s bright future must be supported by the development of science and technology, while maintaining integrity. Therefore, an anti-corruption mindset must continually be emphasized for the nation’s future generations,” he continued.

He also conveyed the President’s optimism regarding Danantara as a driving force for national strategic industries. In this regard, universities play a crucial role as hubs for research and innovation, supporting human resource development to sustain future industrial programs.

“Universities will become the backbone of research, innovation, and human resource development to meet the demands of rapidly growing industries,” he stated.

In addition, the President encouraged universities to produce leading products in order to achieve national self-sufficiency in various sectors, such as food security and mineral downstreaming. He also urged rectors and deans to continuously enhance the quality of education, research, and technological development.

“The President has asked us to give our best, to produce excellent human resources and generate research and technological innovations that meet domestic market needs and drive the revival of the national economy and industry,” he explained.

Prof. Brian stated that the panel discussion with the President was productive, with university rectors given the opportunity to share their perspectives. He expressed hope that the meeting would strengthen the synergy between the government and higher education institutions in building a Progressive Indonesia through research, innovation, and high-quality human resources.

“We appreciate the President’s invitation to rectors from both public and private universities, which has fostered alignment in our mindset. This serves as a great motivation for us to support the President’s programs,” he concluded.

ITB also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the higher education ecosystem, supporting impactful research and innovation, and aligning with government policies that meet the needs of society and the industrial world.

Reporter: Anggun Nindita
Translator: Indira Akmalia Hendri