The Governor of Victoria, Australia, Professor Margaret Gardner AC, delivered a public lecture titled “Sustainable Innovation Ecosystems to Strengthen Indonesia–Australia Cross-Sector Partnership for Economic and Health Resilience” at the UGM Senate Hall on Friday (Nov. 21).
The lecture was opened by the Rector of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Professor Ova Emilia, who expressed her appreciation for the governor’s visit and emphasized its strategic significance for Indonesia-Australia relations.
In her remarks, the rector highlighted the relevance of the lecture topic to UGM’s development agenda, particularly in research collaboration, innovation, health, and economic development.
“We look forward to the valuable insights you will share with us,” she said.
In her lecture, Professor Margaret Gardner underscored the importance of being “good neighbors” in bilateral relations between the two countries. She noted that research collaborations between UGM and various universities in Victoria serve as concrete examples of how cross-sector cooperation can strengthen community capacity.
“It is all about maximizing the potential of every citizen through interdisciplinary research,” she stated.
According to Professor Gardner, knowledge development cannot stand alone but requires synergy across institutions and nations. She emphasized that major opportunities arise from providing strong and inclusive education for young people.
“Investment in education and what young people can do with it is what truly drives our society,” she said.
In her presentation, she also affirmed that education forms the foundation of long-term productivity. Global challenges such as trade, politics, technology, and the environment require countries to support each other and share solutions. Professor Gardner stressed the need for collaboration that goes beyond national boundaries.
“We cannot find all the solutions within our own surroundings,” she explained.
Professor Gardner also quoted former Australian Prime Minister Robert Menzies on the role of universities in shaping the quality of thought and character. She praised UGM’s breadth of academic disciplines, which allows students to learn across fields.
“You offer your students the opportunity to take and learn across disciplines,” she remarked.
Concluding the lecture, Professor Gardner reiterated the importance of building strong international relationships through education and sustained collaboration.
“We must be good neighbors. Good neighbors will shape the best kind of governance,” she concluded.
Author: Alena
Editor: Triya Andriyani
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Photographer: Firsto Adi