During the gathering, the Minister of Politics, Law and Security, Mahfud MD, delivered a discussion on the strategic role of universities in supporting the government in creating political, legal, and security conduciveness during the Covid-19 pandemic.The Minister of Education and Technology, Nadiem Makarim was also present at the meeting.

Mahfud MD emphasized five important points on the occasion.The role of universities is considered very strategic because they have educated resources.In addition, as higher education institutions, universities are an extension of the government's arm in providing understanding to the wider community.

"Utilizing research results for handling the Covid-19 pandemic, both in terms of health and policy.Universities have qualified resources to provide input based on science.So that the government can be helped to make policies,” Mahfud MD said.

Furthermore, the Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs urged universities to be present as facilitators between the community and the government.The reach of universities that are in direct contact with the community makes universities play an important role.

“Universities can be present to bridge the community and the government in delivering criticism and aspirations.Universities can be an extension of the government's hand in conveying policies, and on the other hand, become a bridge for the community to express their aspirations," he said.

Strengthening in various sectors is no less important as the contribution of universities.Universities with various scientific backgrounds are expected to be able to support the government in carrying out such strengthening.

"Strengthening literacy and education for the community, strengthening solidarity and social capacity, as well as strengthening community economic resilience.All of these things can be realized with contributions from universities, as we know universities consist of various disciplines," he said.

Mahfud MD also emphasized that the government has taken many steps in efforts to overcome the Covid-19 pandemic.He said this step was taken even before the Covid-19 began to spread in Indonesia.

Nadiem Makarim in his speech appealed to university leaders to provide the widest opportunity for students to work.According to him, students must be able to express themselves and universities must accommodate it.

"Freeing students on a positive path.Students must be independent in thought, action, and will.They must be accommodated to develop according to their passion,” Nadiem Makarim said.

His party has provided guidelines for universities in order to maximize the potential of students through the Independent Learning-Independent Campus program.Through this program, higher education leaders can realize the ideals of developing student abilities based on their interests and talents.

Present at the meeting were leaders of public and private universities in Indonesia.After the presentation, continued with discussion and question and answer.The activity closed with a group photo via screenshots.(©ULC)

Author: Roni Hikmah Ramadhan - PR

Interviewee: - - -

Photographer: Amri Simatupang - PR