Indonesia Allocates Rp57 Billion to Fund 122 University Research Projects Under National Innovation Drive
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: The Government of Indonesia has allocated Rp57 billion (approximately US$3.51 million) to support 122 university research programs aimed at strengthening the country’s national innovation ecosystem.
The funding, provided by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology in collaboration with the Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education, is being disbursed through the Bestari Saintek Program, launched alongside the broader Semesta Program under the 2026 state budget scheme in Jakarta.
According to Ahmad Najib Burhani, Director General of Science and Technology, the initiative aims to harness grassroots innovation through a highly competitive selection process. A total of 122 research teams were selected, involving 854 lecturers and academic staff, supported by 341 primary and partner institutions across multiple sectors.
State universities accounted for 57.8 percent of participating institutions, while private universities contributed 42.2 percent, highlighting the growing role of both sectors in advancing Indonesia’s research landscape.
The selected projects span eight strategic sectors, with food and agriculture leading at 45 teams, followed by social sciences, humanities, arts, and education with 30 teams, and maritime studies with 12 teams. Other focus areas include information and communication technology (9 teams), health and pharmaceuticals (8 teams), disaster management (8 teams), energy and renewable energy (6 teams), and advanced materials (4 teams).
Ayom Widipaminto, Director of Research Facilitation at LPDP, emphasized that while funding flexibility is essential, ensuring accountability and tangible impact remains a key challenge. He stressed the importance of translating research outcomes into practical applications adopted by industry.
Meanwhile, Minister of Higher Education Brian Yuliarto urged academics to go beyond academic publications and focus on delivering real-world impact through sustained research efforts.
The initiative reflects Indonesia’s broader commitment to fostering innovation, strengthening collaboration between academia and industry, and driving sustainable national development through research and technology.
