Indonesia-JICA Deepen Strategic Cooperation in Higher Education and Research

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is strengthening strategic cooperation in higher education, science, and industry–academia collaboration through a renewed partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The commitment was underscored during a meeting at the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology in Jakarta on Friday, February 20, 2026.

Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto praised the long-standing collaboration with JICA, which has supported infrastructure development, research facilities, and capacity building in Indonesian universities through partnerships with Japanese campuses and companies.

“We are open to JICA’s input and expertise, including the involvement of specialists to help identify priority sectors for Indonesia’s development,” Brian said in a statement released Saturday, as quoted by Antara.

He added that the ministry is currently drafting a master plan for higher education, science, and technology infrastructure, and welcomes contributions from JICA to ensure the plan is comprehensive and forward-looking.

JICA Chief Representative Sachiko Takeda reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to strengthening cooperation, particularly in higher education and industry–academia collaboration. She noted that new projects are being prepared to enhance science, technology, and the arts at five Indonesian universities.

“We aim to contribute to stronger industry–academia partnerships by involving Japanese companies,” Takeda said.

Both sides agreed to continue building synergy to support Indonesia’s transformation toward globally competitive and inclusive higher education. The collaboration is expected to reinforce the research and innovation ecosystem, encourage greater industry participation, and expand equitable access to quality education across the country. ***