Universitas Padjajaran (UNPAD) research team member, Rathi Gandini expressed her excitement after the booth she represented was visited by President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, at the 2025 Indonesia Science, Technology, and Industry Convention (KSTI). She thanked Prabowo for supporting research and innovation, which she believes can lead to products with tangible economic impact. Rathi said she hopes that the innovations developed at UNPAD will eventually be commercialized and reach broader communities. The President’s visit was seen as a morale boost and validation of their work.
During the same event, Rathi shared hopes that Prabowo’s administration would further assist universities in funding and advancing research initiatives. She emphasized that support from the national level could help researchers take innovations from early-stage development to market-ready solutions. For institutions like UNPAD, this backing could enable more impactful contributions to national development. She also mentioned the importance of sustaining momentum for research-based innovation.
Another exhibitor, Lia Melani, was also surprised when President Prabowo and the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology visited her booth directly after entering the venue. Lia did not expect such attention and described her interaction with the President as both shocking and inspiring. She said the President showed interest in medical equipment innovations and asked technical questions about their educational modules. Being able to shake hands with him, she noted, was a memorable moment.
Lia also voiced her hope that KSTI 2025 would lead to greater investments in science, technology, and innovation. She believes national transformation efforts should prioritize inclusive access to the benefits of innovation, reaching citizens from all walks of life. Expanding government funding for research could ensure that innovations are not only scientifically significant but socially impactful. She concluded by stressing that science and technology must serve the people equitably, from the grassroots to the elite.
Alexander Jason – Redaksi
