UNS – Vice Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Wamendiktisaintek), Prof. Stella Christie, A.B., Ph.D., visited Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta on Friday (7/2/2025). The Rector of UNS, Prof. Dr. Hartono, dr. M.Si., welcomed her at the Ki Hadjar Dewantara UNS Tower.
Prof. Stella Explores UNS’s Groundbreaking Research
Upon her arrival, Prof. Stella explored the university’s research and innovation exhibition. She engaged with the various projects developed by UNS’s academic community.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to learn about the remarkable research and innovations at UNS. From the ministry’s perspective, we aim to support and facilitate these efforts, ensuring their sustainable growth and development. These innovations are extraordinary. Their breadth significantly helps us in formulating strategies to advance science and technology in Indonesia,” Prof. Stella said.
The exhibition showcased a variety of groundbreaking research findings across diverse fields. Notable innovations included a Virtual Reality-Based Teaching Aid Platform for immersive and collaborative learning. There was also a Braille/Tactile Graphic Duplicator Machine for visually impaired students. Other innovations included a Virtual Reality-Based Animal Recognition Application and the Development of Cocoa and Chocolate Derivative Products, among others.
Fostering Innovation and Collaboration for National Development
“President Prabowo has emphasized the importance of both fundamental and applied research. Both are equally crucial, as their application can foster job creation and spur the development of new industries,” Prof. Stella remarked.
During her remarks, Prof. Stella emphasized that research publications should focus not only quality but also quantity. She confirmed the ministry’s commitment to fostering a supportive regulatory ecosystem for researchers. This will ensure stronger collaboration between academia and industry, while also connecting research to society. She acknowledged the numerous innovations and prototypes showcased at the event. In addition, she also highlighted the importance of expanding the reach of these advancements to a wider audience.
“We already have numerous innovations, with prototypes and high-quality research papers. The next step is to ensure these innovations are widely adopted. The introduction of an e-catalog is a groundbreaking development. It allows state-owned enterprises (BUMN) to easily access and purchase these innovations, spreading knowledge and technology to the broader community,” Prof. Stella concluded.
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