RRI.CO.ID, Bali - Indonesia is strengthening its higher education system by promoting science- and technology-based entrepreneurship to prepare a new generation of innovators capable of creating jobs and driving economic growth. The initiative forms part of the government's long-term strategy to support the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision through knowledge- and innovation-based development.

The initiative was highlighted during the Third National Working Meeting of the Indonesian Entrepreneurship Study Program Alliance (APSKI) 2026, held in Bali on Thursday, July 23, 2026. The forum brought together academics, policymakers, industry representatives, and international partners to discuss the future of entrepreneurship education in Indonesia.

Acting Secretary General of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Badri Munir Sukoco, said entrepreneurship study programs have become a strategic instrument in developing an inclusive, adaptive, and impactful higher education ecosystem. He stressed that Indonesia needs more technopreneurs capable of transforming research and innovation into practical solutions and new sources of economic growth.

"We need to understand that science- and technology-based entrepreneurs are becoming increasingly important. Entrepreneurship study programs are highly relevant in addressing future challenges through innovation commercialization and the creation of new jobs," Badri said.

He added that Indonesia's demographic bonus and the persistence of graduate unemployment require universities to transform into entrepreneurial institutions. According to him, higher education should not only produce job-ready graduates but also individuals capable of building businesses rooted in science and technology.

The ministry also called for stronger collaboration among universities, regional governments, industries, financial institutions, and professional associations to create a more integrated entrepreneurship ecosystem. Such partnerships are expected to strengthen business incubation programs and improve the success rate of technology-based start-ups founded by young entrepreneurs.

Deputy for Entrepreneurship at the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, M. Riza Damanik, said entrepreneurship is essential to accelerating economic growth while reducing unemployment. "Indonesia cannot become a developed nation without a strong entrepreneurship ratio capable of driving economic growth and creating employment opportunities," he said, referring to Presidential Regulation No. 38 of 2026 on Entrepreneurship Development as a framework for cross-sector collaboration.

Currently representing more than 120 entrepreneurship study programs, APSKI continues to expand its national and international partnerships while promoting AI-based curriculum development and innovation-driven education. Through the annual meeting, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to producing globally competitive Indonesian technopreneurs who can commercialize innovation, generate employment, and strengthen the country's long-term economic competitiveness.