Universities Actively Involved in Post-Disaster Recovery in Sumatra

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Dozens of universities are taking an active role in post-disaster recovery efforts across Sumatra. Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Brian Yuliarto, announced this at the State Palace in Jakarta on Thursday, January 15, 2026.

“A total of 82 universities are directly engaged in recovery efforts in Sumatra. This program is carried out under the direct instruction of President Prabowo,” he stated during a dialogue between the President and 1,000 academics at the State Palace.

The universities, working alongside government ministries, are conducting operations across three provinces, covering 31 regencies and 104 subdistricts. In total, 3,746 personnel have been deployed, consisting of medical professionals, healthcare workers, and general volunteers.

Minister Brian emphasized that universities are not present merely as observers but as part of the solution. “Universities must not only stand as observers, but also serve as solutions for the nation,” he said.

Currently, Indonesia has 4,614 public and private universities, with 303,000 lecturers and 9.9 million active students nationwide. This vast pool of human resources is expected to drive recovery efforts while strengthening the country’s competitiveness. (Annaila Azzahra/Sri Wahyuni)