Minister Brian Yuliarto of Indonesia calls for research‑driven universities and industry‑aligned graduates

Indonesia’s Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Brian Yuliarto, said the transformation of higher education must be anchored in a strong research culture, well‑equipped laboratories and mentorship networks linking leading and newer campuses. He highlighted the need for universities to contribute directly to society, stating, “The ultimate goal of research is what we can contribute to society.” The ministry’s vision targets eight strategic sectors, including food security, health, energy, maritime, defense, digital AI, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, aiming to make higher education a motor of social and economic change.

Following a presidential directive, Yuliarto outlined a plan to map the skill needs of strategic industries and ensure graduates possess the competencies required for downstream industrialisation. He warned, “We are asked to ensure that the industry we are boosting does not develop rapidly and then face a shortage of qualified manpower or mismatched skills.” The effort involves aligning curricula, expanding research capacity and coordinating with industry leaders to avoid talent gaps in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, automotive and defence.

The minister’s initiatives were discussed in a meeting with President Prabowo, PT Pindad’s director, the state secretary and other officials, underscoring the government’s focus on synchronising higher‑education output with national industrial priorities.