Indonesia urges professors to foster self-reliance through science

Indonesia is taking significant steps toward integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its national development strategy, with a focus on enhancing digital infrastructure, fostering local talent, and addressing pressing societal challenges. One of the key initiatives involves embedding AI into major government programs, such as the $15 billion free-meal drive, which aims to alleviate food insecurity across the archipelago. This ambitious plan signals a growing recognition of AI’s transformative potential in tackling complex socio-economic issues and aligning with global technological trends.

The expansion of AI-related efforts is evident in recent collaborations between Indonesia and Japan, facilitated by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Through the Next Generation AI Talent Factory Technical Cooperation Project, both nations are working together to build a robust AI workforce and deepen digital cooperation. The initiative, launched at the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs in Jakarta, focuses on strengthening digital skills, safeguarding children online, countering disinformation, and supporting national development goals. Deputy Minister Nezar Patria emphasized that this partnership reflects the strategic alignment between Indonesia and Japan, aiming to prepare societies for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.

The AI Talent Factory program, initiated in 2025, has already demonstrated tangible outcomes, producing AI-based solutions that support national priorities. These include tools for child protection in digital spaces, combating misinformation, and enhancing social assistance programs. In 2026, the program expanded through partnerships with prestigious universities such as Brawijaya University, Sepuluh Nopember Institute of Technology, and Gadjah Mada University, involving 98 participants. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, ensuring that participants can translate theoretical knowledge into practical, impactful solutions. Head of the Human Resources Development Agency, Bonifasius Wahyu Pudjianto, highlighted that AI talent development goes beyond traditional classroom settings and requires a collaborative ecosystem involving government bodies, academic institutions, and industry leaders.

Parallel to these AI initiatives, Indonesia is also emphasizing the importance of scientific research and technological innovation in achieving national self-reliance. Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto urged professors and university leaders to contribute science and technology-based solutions to support the country’s economic resilience. He noted that global economic shifts have increased dependency on foreign resources, underscoring the need for domestic mastery of science, research, and innovation. Yuliarto pointed out that Indonesia possesses vast natural resources, but their full potential can only be realized through strategic research, technological advancement, and efficient governance. He called for stronger collaboration between academia, researchers, and the government to address national challenges effectively.

Universities are being positioned as crucial actors in this vision. Rector of Padjadjaran University, Arief Sjamsulaksan Kartasasmita, acknowledged the increasing complexity of challenges faced by higher education institutions and stressed the necessity of strategic insights from faculty members to inform evidence-based policies. Outstanding universities, according to Kartasasmita, are those that can generate meaningful societal impact through innovative research and educational practices.

Looking ahead, Indonesia appears poised to leverage AI and scientific advancements as cornerstones of its development strategy. The integration of AI into key programs, alongside the emphasis on self-reliance through science and technology, suggests a multifaceted approach to navigating the complexities of the modern world. As the country continues to refine its AI initiatives and bolster its research capabilities, the coming years will likely see further collaboration with international partners and deeper engagement with domestic stakeholders to ensure sustainable growth and societal benefit.