Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Uno explored potentials for collaboration with Northeastern University in Boston, the United States, in an effort to step up international cooperation in the tourism and creative economy sectors.

In his office's statement released here on Sunday (April 14), Uno noted that cooperation with the university was needed to strengthen Indonesia's mastery of science and technology, including of artificial intelligence (AI).

"We need to establish collaboration by involving the Bali Tourism Polytechnic, in particular. It should be noted that Bali has been a magnet for international tourists and known for its cultural heritage and mesmerizing natural beauty," he stated.

He made the statement during a visit to the renowned university in Boston on Friday (April 12).

The minister spoke of having approached the university to encourage it to conduct comparative studies and joint research, strengthen the curriculum, and establish industrial partnership with the Tourism Polytechnic of Bali.

Related news: Govt focusing on quality tourism: Minister Uno

He expressed belief that such collaboration would enhance the capacity of the polytechnic, which in turn would improve the quality of tourism education and training in Indonesia.

"This is in line with the Indonesian government's commitment to advancing the tourism and creative economy sectors, stimulating economic growth, and promoting the practices of sustainable tourism," he pointed out.

Uno then suggested that the two educational institutions devise project-based graduate curriculum, organize scientific workshops or networking activities to bolster students' entrepreneurial skills, and conduct student exchange.

"We are hoping for the establishment of mutually beneficial cooperation between the Northeastern University and Bali Tourism Polytechnic," he remarked.

Meanwhile, Dunton Family Dean of Northeastern University's D'Amore-McKim School of Business, David de Cremer, said he acknowledged the huge potential of AI boosting the tourism and creative economy industries.

He noted that the university would initially study the utilization of AI in the industries before proceeding with cooperation opportunities with Indonesia.

Related news: Indonesia needs competent HR for quality tourism: Minister

Translator: Sinta A, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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