Government Reminds University Researchers to Support National Development Direction

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek) continues to encourage research and studies in higher education institutions to proceed in line with the national development agenda. This step is deemed important so that the academic world does not become detached from real needs in society and industry.

Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Mendiktisaintek) Brian Yuliarto stated that various strategic programmes are being intensified within the university environment. These programmes include strengthening research products, developing the Garuda School, and scientific studies that support government priority policies, such as waste management and energy transition.

“The programmes currently underway cover research products, the Garuda School, as well as studies related to the President’s major agenda, such as waste management and energy conversion,” said Brian during the Halal Bihalal event at the Kemdiktisaintek Office on Monday (6/4).

He emphasised that the President has directed that research and higher education should not proceed independently, but rather in harmony with national development policies.

“Research and higher education must support the direction of national development so as not to become detached from real needs,” he stated.

According to him, this alignment is also important so that higher education graduates possess competencies that match industry needs, including in supporting mineral downstreaming, the development of new energy sources such as solar power plants (PLTS), and the national vehicle industry.

Thus, universities are expected to become centres for the birth of innovations that are not only academically excellent but also have a direct impact on development and national economic independence.