- Joint research initiatives aim to connect higher education with innovation, industry needs and employment opportunities.
- New PhD scholarships and expanded mobility programs will strengthen academic exchange and talent development.
- The partnership prioritises future-ready skills in green energy, technology and health sciences.
Indonesia and France have taken a significant step to strengthen their education and research partnership, with a strong focus on skills development, jobs and innovation. The renewed collaboration was confirmed during a high-level meeting in Jakarta on 26 January 2026 between Indonesia’s Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Brian Yuliarto, and French Ambassador Fabien Penone.
The partnership builds on the shared vision of President Prabowo Subianto and French President Emmanuel Macron, who have placed human capital development at the centre of bilateral relations. Both countries agreed to move beyond short-term exchanges and adopt a structured, long-term roadmap for academic and scientific cooperation.
A key outcome of the meeting was the launch of the Indonesia-France Year of Innovation, a year-long programme aimed at linking academic research with real-world industry needs. The initiative will support joint projects between universities, researchers and industries, helping transform research into practical solutions and job-ready skills.
The collaboration will focus on priority areas such as green energy, maritime studies, technology and health sciences. These sectors are critical for economic growth and workforce development in both countries, and the partnership seeks to align Indonesia’s development goals with French expertise.
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Student mobility remains a core pillar of the agreement. Alongside existing joint master’s programmes, the two countries will introduce a dedicated PhD scholarship pathway supported by Indonesia’s Endowment Fund for Education (LPDP). France has also expressed interest in expanding its university presence in Indonesia through joint campuses and academic programmes.
The partnership underscores a shared commitment to developing global talent and using education and research to drive jobs and long-term growth.
