Indonesia-Germany to Increase Student Exchange Program

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – Indonesia is doubling down on its long-standing academic partnership with Germany, focusing on joint research, student exchanges, and the development of a highly-skilled workforce. This partnership is to support national priority programs including food security, renewable energy, clean water, industrial downstreaming, digitalization, and national defense.

In a meeting held at Jakarta on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, Indonesia's Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Brian Yuliarto, met with German Ambassador, Ralf Beste, to outline a strategic roadmap for future collaboration. The meeting highlighted several priority sectors where German expertise and Indonesian talent are set to converge.

“We have a long history together. We hope this collaboration can continue, including sending Indonesian students to Germany. Currently, interest in international programs in Germany continues to increase,” said Minister Brian.

According to the ministry’s press release, Indonesia and Germany want to push for more joint degree and double degree programs between Indonesian and German universities. Other than that, funding for joint PhD programs and research initiatives will be expanded.

Ambassador Ralf said that student exchange remains a top priority for the German Embassy in Jakarta, noting that the science and cultural attachés are working closely to bridge the gap between the two nations' academic sectors. By aligning academic output with sustainable development goals, both nations aim to foster innovation that addresses global challenges while strengthening bilateral relations.

He added that for this partnership, the President of the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service), who also serves as the Rector of the University of Cologne will be visiting Indonesian universities. This visit is expected to serve as a forum for Indonesian university rectors to formalize institutional agreements and deepen research ties.