Bappenas' Deputy for Human Development, Society, and Culture, Amich Alhumami, stated here on Tuesday that three main aspects of scientific development, knowledge production, and technological innovation must be bolstered in universities in the country to contribute to economic growth.
"Those three aspects are the most needed to contribute to economic development and growth," he remarked.
Alhumami said that every university in Indonesia must map out the potential and industry of each region.
"For example, in the Sumatra region, what is the real industrial potential or economic potential that the region has? Is it tourism? Is it manufacturing? And what natural resources do they actually have?" he explained.
After mapping those potentials, Alhumami underscored the need for universities to strengthen the aspect of education, especially in fields that can support such economic potential.
He deems this step as necessary so that the aspects of scientific development, knowledge production, and technological innovation carried out at the university level align with each region's needs.
Hence, the policies implemented in regions will be based on scientific data.
He emphasized that strengthening universities is important, as they are the centers of excellence comprising scientists and researchers with mastery in their fields.
Earlier, Minister of National Development Planning Rachmat Pambudy said his side seeks to intensify cooperation with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP) to encourage sustainable economic growth and improve the quality of Indonesia's human resources.
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Translator: Sean M, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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