Ministries align to support research projects for food security goal

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology and the Ministry of Agriculture have agreed to collaborate in supporting research initiatives critical to Indonesia’s pursuit of food self-sufficiency.

This partnership was formalized through the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) focused on research into ten key agricultural commodities. The signing took place during a food security-themed discussion forum held at the Ministry of Agriculture’s headquarters in Jakarta on Monday (February 24).

According to a statement released here on Tuesday, the MoU aims to facilitate research on rice, corn, garlic, sugarcane, cattle, soybeans, fertilizer, cassava, wheat, and potatoes -- commodities whose productivity remains below optimal levels.

The research projects will engage teams from 30 higher education institutions with agricultural faculties.

During the discussion, Higher Education, Science, and Technology Minister Brian Yuliarto emphasized the importance of enhancing synergy between universities and the Ministry of Agriculture to achieve Indonesia's goal of food self-sufficiency.

"Campuses have the responsibility to produce reliable human resources --talents who will be the backbone of technological advancements. This way, we can expect to see the emergence of technology-based industries," he stated.

Yuliarto also stressed the need for Indonesia to strengthen its food industry. In this context, he noted that universities can serve as the spearhead of food security by focusing on efforts to increase national productivity and supporting the government's downstreaming policy.

He expressed hope that Indonesia would align with developed countries, particularly in terms of mastering technology and ensuring food security.

Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman affirmed that the contributions of universities and students are of the essence for strengthening Indonesia's agriculture sector.

“We have the potential to become a global leader in agriculture. This is our comparative advantage,” he affirmed.