On Thursday (May 15), a meeting was held in Jakarta between Secretary-General of the Indonesian Higher Education, Science, and Technology Ministry, Togar M. Simatupang, and Saint Lucia's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Menissa Rambally.
"We are convinced that education and knowledge are key to becoming a developed country," Simatupang remarked, as cited from his office's statement on Friday.
On that note, he emphasized that his ministry is committed to supporting President Prabowo Subianto's primary goals for Indonesia, especially those related to food self-sufficiency and improvements in the educational system.
He noted that to achieve these objectives, the Indonesian government is keen to forge partnerships with other nations.
Simatupang then highlighted that Indonesia welcomes students from fellow developing countries keen to study at its universities, citing programs such as the Developing Country Partnership Scholarship and the Indonesian AID Scholarship (TIAS).
In this regard, the official noted that TIAS had facilitated the study of two Saint Lucian citizens majoring in mechanical engineering at the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB).
He also spotlighted a strategic program launched on May 2 called "Diktisaintek Berdampak" (Impactful Higher Education, Science, and Technology), which aims to create real benefits for society through research and educational activities.
Rambally, representing Saint Lucia, extended her gratitude to Indonesia for its assistance in strengthening her Caribbean country’s national capacity.
She contended that ongoing educational cooperation is a valuable investment in Saint Lucia's future and hopes it would pave the way for broader collaboration.
"We are interested in the programs offered, and we hope to send more students to pursue higher education in Indonesia," she remarked.
Related news: Indonesia strengthens higher education partnership with Mongolia
Related news: RI Govt urges varsities to create graduates who make positive change
Related news: Indonesia, Saudi Arabia collaborate to advance higher education
Translator: Sean F, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
