Universitas Indonesia (UI) continues to prove its existence as the best university in the country. For five consecutive years, UI has successfully maintained its title as the number one university in Indonesia according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings (THE WUR). This year, UI recorded a monumental achievement by becoming the only university in Indonesia ranked 801–1000 in the world among 2,092 universities from 115 countries. In addition to THE, other global-ranking institutions also placed UI in the top position in the country.
University Secretary of UI, dr. Agustin Kusumayati, M.Sc., Ph.D., stated that this success cannot be separated from the dedication of all UI academics who are able to utilize limited resources optimally. “This achievement is the result of the extraordinary fighting spirit of UI academics. We realize that when compared to other universities abroad, our resources are much smaller. However, with effective and efficient utilization, we are able to produce proud achievements,” said dr. Agustin.
To continue to compete in the international arena, UI strategically studies THE WUR assessment indicators which include Teaching, Research Environment, Research Quality, Industry, and International Outlook. Among all these indicators, research quality is the main assessment that is highly emphasized.
“Five years ago, the culture of writing among academics still needed to be encouraged. Now, UI is not only targeting publications, but also demanding quality writing that can be published in highly reputable journals such as Q1 or Q2,” explained dr. Agustin. The goal, she continued, is that the research produced not only answers academic needs, but also has a broad impact on society.
Transforming Towards an Entrepreneurial University
UI does not stop at its status as a research university. In the future, UI targets to become an entrepreneurial university. This concept is realized by encouraging research collaboration with academic and industrial partners. The result is research that not only produces innovative products, but also supports government policy making.
For example, UI has succeeded in developing the Covent-20 Ventilator with industrial partners to handle the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, UI has also prepared a policy brief related to the development of the Nusantara Capital City (IKN). “We learn from major universities in the United States, where collaboration between industry and higher education is very mature. Investment from industry not only supports research, but also makes it relevant to market needs, so that universities are more financially independent,” added dr. Agustin.
Strengthening Internationalization and Collaboration
Internationalization is one of the important steps for UI to answer global challenges. By expanding its international cooperation network, UI offers excellent programs such as joint degrees, double degrees, and student and staff exchanges. UI also actively participates in supporting the government in the Indonesian International Student Mobility Awards (IISMA) scholarship program.
In addition, UI involves alumni in curriculum development to ensure that it is in line with job market needs. “Alumni provide very valuable input. With their feedback, the curriculum we have prepared is more relevant and is able to produce competent graduates,” said Agustin.
With a strong commitment, solid collaboration, and support from various parties, Universitas Indonesia is optimistic to continue strengthening its position on the world stage. Not only is it a source of pride for the nation, UI is also ready to make a real contribution to global progress.
