Minister of Education and Technology Highlights Three Core Functions of Higher Education in Community Development
Jakarta, July 6, 2025 — During a working visit to Fakfak State Polytechnic (Polinef) in West Papua on July 4, Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology Brian Yuliarto underscored the critical roles that higher education institutions play in societal advancement. He emphasized three primary functions of higher education: serving as producers of superior human resources, conducting research and innovation, and providing practical solutions to community needs.
Addressing educators, students, and regional officials, Minister Brian articulated that polytechnics like Polinef should act as pivotal nodes for economic growth within their regions. “This can be achieved by strengthening vocational education ecosystems, fostering active partnerships with industry and government sectors, and cultivating an inclusive and dynamic campus culture,” he stated, as reported from Jakarta via Antara news agency.
The minister also highlighted that these functions must be supported by robust and collaborative campus governance to maximize their effectiveness. He urged universities nationwide to transform their campuses into centers for public engagement, where character-building and knowledge dissemination flourish not only within students but also the surrounding communities.
Brian Yuliarto expressed confidence in the potential of students in Fakfak to become proactive contributors to local and national development rather than passive observers. He noted, “The availability of skilled and superior human resources is key to attracting investment. We must seize this growth momentum. Vocational education offers a swift pathway toward building a productive and competitive Indonesia.”
Local leadership echoed this commitment. Fakfak Regent Samaun Dahlan underscored the region’s dedication to advancing Polinef as a hub for cultivating highly capable and professional graduates. He expressed hopes that programs focused on oil and gas and marine resources would open avenues for local students to engage directly with the industrial sector, creating economic opportunities within the community.
This ministerial visit reflects the government’s ongoing dedication to expanding equitable access to quality higher education for the people of Papua. By reinforcing vocational training and research capabilities, officials aim to bridge development gaps and foster regional economic growth through education.
About Fakfak State Polytechnic (Polinef)
Polinef is a vocational education institution located in West Papua designed to empower local students with the practical skills and professional knowledge necessary for regional industry demands.
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(This article was originally reported in Indonesian and translated using AI. Readers are advised to refer to the original Indonesian version for the most accurate details.)
