West Sumatra Governor calls for university collaboration in regional development

West Sumatra Governor Mahyeldi Ansharullah has called upon alumni of Universitas Negeri Padang (UNP) to contribute to regional development, specifically focusing on education and the growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). During a large alumni gathering, Mahyeldi emphasized that alumni networks should serve as collaborative engines to help approximately 740,000 MSME actors in the province improve product standards, packaging, and market access.

In the education sector, the Governor urged synergy between universities and professionals to bridge the gap between students and industry through internships and curriculum adjustments. Minister of Manpower Yassierli noted that human resources must prepare for shifts in the labor market caused by artificial intelligence, robotics, and the transition to a green economy.

Separately, the West Sumatra provincial government is encouraging higher education institutions to act as a defense against drug abuse. Representing the Governor at a national seminar in Bukittinggi, official Mursalim highlighted the need for universities to protect the younger generation through digital-based education, counseling, and collaboration with law enforcement and the National Narcotics Board (BNN).