Bappenas Highlights Role of Universities in Driving Economic Growth in Indonesia
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: The Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) is advocating for enhanced efforts to strengthen universities across Indonesia as a cornerstone for economic growth.
Speaking on Tuesday, Amich Alhumami, Deputy for Human Development, Society, and Culture at Bappenas, emphasized the critical importance of advancing scientific development, knowledge production, and technological innovation in higher education institutions to propel the nation’s economic progress.
“These three aspects are vital to contribute significantly to economic development and growth,” Alhumami stated.
He urged universities to focus on identifying and leveraging the unique economic and industrial potential of their respective regions.
“For instance, in the Sumatra region, we must identify the dominant industrial or economic potentials—is it tourism, manufacturing, or specific natural resources? Such mapping is essential,” he explained.
Alhumami highlighted the importance of aligning academic programs and research focus with regional needs. This approach, he noted, ensures that scientific development, innovation, and knowledge production at universities directly support the local economy. Moreover, it provides policymakers with scientific data to base their strategies on.
Recognizing universities as critical centers of excellence, Alhumami underscored their role in producing skilled scientists and researchers who can contribute to Indonesia’s sustainable economic growth.
This initiative aligns with broader government efforts. Earlier, Minister of National Development Planning Rachmat Pambudy stressed the importance of intensifying cooperation with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP) to boost sustainable economic development and enhance the quality of Indonesia’s human resources.
These combined efforts signify Indonesia’s commitment to fostering innovation, regional economic alignment, and global collaboration for long-term growth.
