To strengthen Indonesia’s competitiveness in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia (Komdigi RI), through the Digital Talent Development Center of the Human Resources Development Agency (BPSDM), once again held the Artificial Intelligence Talent Factory (AITF) program at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) on May 2–3. The program aims to develop AI talent by focusing on solving national challenges through project-based learning. The activity was attended by students and lecturers from various universities across Indonesia, including UGM, Universitas Brawijaya (UB), and Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS).
In addition, the program serves as a platform for collaboration among participants, academics, industry practitioners, and other stakeholders to develop practical AI solutions that deliver tangible impact.
Dean of UGM’s Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (MIPA UGM), Professor Kuwat Triyana, stated that AI talent development is being pursued to create opportunities for international collaboration. He noted that several AI development projects and initiatives have expanded to various regions, including Timor-Leste and Malaysia.
“In Timor-Leste, we compete with major companies. Our prices are only about one-third or even one-quarter of theirs, yet we continue to secure many work opportunities,” he said in a statement released on Thursday (Jun. 4).
Furthermore, Professor Kuwat explained that the success of Indonesian youth in building such collaborations demonstrates that Indonesia’s competitive advantage lies in the quality of its outcomes. He specifically encouraged students and AITF participants to continue developing their AI capabilities and contribute to Indonesia’s progress through technological innovation.
“I believe this program has been tremendously helpful, particularly in improving our capacity to advance technology development, including artificial intelligence. If participants eventually develop even greater expertise, we can collaborate to help Indonesia become more advanced in AI mastery,” he said.
Meanwhile, Head of BPSDM of Komdigi RI, Dr. Bonifasius Wahyu Pudjianto, explained that the program is intended not only to enhance participants’ technical competencies in artificial intelligence but also to create opportunities for career development and technology-based entrepreneurship.
“This program can serve as inspiration for developing the skills needed to build enterprises or manage businesses in the future. It is not only about technical aspects but also about understanding the applicable rules and agreements,” he said.
Dr. Bonifasius also emphasized that the workshop is expected to generate a meaningful impact for both participants and society. As a result, technological advances through AI development can benefit a wide range of stakeholders and policymakers.
“The collaborations developed through this program should not be merely prototypes or academic assignments. I hope the products created will generate real impact,” he said.
He further noted that the program can provide valuable experience and serve as preparation for addressing fraud in future professional settings.
“Once fraud occurs, it becomes difficult to attract investors. Therefore, maintain integrity when building a business so that investor trust can be preserved,” he concluded.
Author: Diyana Khairunnisa and Jelita Agustine
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Jasmine Ferdian
Photo: Magnific