Indonesia's universities urged to boost impact on development

hartono · Apr 27, 2026

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Higher Education, Science, and Technology Minister Brian Yuliarto, during a strategic dialogue with leaders from universities, polytechnics, and the Kalimantan Higher Education Service Department (LLDikti) in Pontianak, West Kalimantan, on Thursday (April 23, 2026). ANTARA/HO-Kemdiktisaintek

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Higher Education Minister Brian Yuliarto urged universities to be more responsive and deliver greater impact on Indonesia's national development by aligning academic work with community needs.

In a statement on Sunday, he said universities play a key role through the “impactful university” concept, linking education, research and service to real societal demands.

He made the remarks during a strategic dialogue with leaders from universities, polytechnics and LLDikti in Pontianak, West Kalimantan, on Thursday.

“We want knowledge, research and students to engage in hands-on work that meets the needs of surrounding communities,” he said.

He also stressed the need to maintain campus integrity by ensuring environments are free from all forms of violence.

The minister highlighted challenges in student development in the digital era and the critical role of educators in shaping character.

He said institutions must respond quickly to challenges facing higher education.

The ministry is working to improve higher education services by streamlining regulations and strengthening LLDikti’s role as a public service agency.

“We welcome feedback to improve our services, including through LLDikti,” he said.

Yuliarto urged university leaders to remain optimistic in educating future generations who will drive national development.

“I believe they will become community leaders, national leaders and pioneers of development,” he said.