Minister urges vocational colleges to provide science, tech knowledge

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Higher Education, Science, and Technology Minister Brian Yuliarto called on vocational universities to not only concentrate on practical and applied sciences but also to provide students with a solid understanding of science and technology.

"President Prabowo's goal is to advance our nation and improve its quality to match that of other developed countries. This way, our children can live in peace and comfort and achieve prosperity," Yuliarto noted in the ministry's statement here on Saturday.

According to the minister, having a grasp of science and technology is essential for graduates of vocational universities to address various challenges in the industrial sector.

He noted that this goal cannot be realized without a robust industry capable of producing high-value or competent goods.

Yuliarto affirmed that capital or resources are the key to strong and quality production.

"The ministry will focus on enhancing national independence, creating quality jobs, fostering the growth of the creative industry, developing skilled human resources in science and technology, and promoting downstreaming based on natural resources," he stated.

He believes that polytechnics can be vital assets in building the country's human resources through quality education.

Building quality human resources through top-notch education aligns with the visions of President Prabowo Subianto.

"This is very necessary to achieve economic success grounded in Pancasila and the independence of the Indonesian nation," he stressed.

Therefore, he encouraged university senates to actively oversee their campuses to take on strategic roles in order to liberate Indonesia from the middle-income trap and generate large industries.