President Prabowo Highlights Universities’ Strategic Role in Indonesia’s Development

President Prabowo Subianto on Thursday (3/14) at the Presidential Palace, Jakarta, attended a gathering and panel discussion with rectors and leaders of public and private universities across the nation. (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat)

President Prabowo Subianto on Thursday (3/14) at the Presidential Palace, Jakarta, attended a gathering and panel discussion with rectors and leaders of public and private universities across the nation.

The discussion highlighted the role of higher education institutions in driving national progress through research, innovation, and the enhancement of human resources quality.

Following the meeting, Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto stated that the President emphasized Indonesia’s great potential to become a developed nation.

“The President also stated that only nations that master science and technology will become prosperous,” the Minister said, adding that the President underscored the strategic role universities play in supporting industrial development.

According to Brian, the President also expressed his optimism about the newly-established sovereign wealth fund, Danantara, as the driving force of Indonesia’s strategic industries.

“In this regard, universities will become the backbone of research, innovation, and human resources to support rapid industrial development in the future,” Brian said.

The President, he added, also encouraged universities to produce excellent products to achieve national self-sufficiency in various sectors, including food security and mineral downstreaming.

“The President urged us to give our best, to produce the finest human resources from universities, breakthrough research in technology, and technological products that cater to Indonesia’s vast market—contributing to the rise of Indonesia’s economy and industry,” the Minister explained.

The Minister went on to say that the discussion with President Prabowo was very insightful, and rectors were also given the opportunity to share their views. He also expressed hope that the meeting will strengthen the synergy between the Government and universities for the country’s development.

“We truly appreciate and express our gratitude to the President for inviting all rectors, from public and private universities. We are ready to support the President’s programs,” the Minister remarked. (BPMI Setpres) (RI/MUR)