Indosat launches academic AI drive to bridge digital skills gap
Indosat has engaged with Indonesian universities and global institutions to push forward the adoption of artificial intelligence in higher education. The company launched a new academic initiative focused on integrating AI-driven learning and research within university environments nationwide.
Digital skills need
The push comes amid concerns highlighted in recent data showing a gap in AI and STEM graduates. According to the Empowering Indonesia Report 2025, out of 11 million university graduates in 2024, less than 25% were from AI-related or STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields. Most graduates emerged from humanities and business (39%), medical studies (15%), and engineering (15%). AI-specific study programmes remain scarce, producing fewer than 1,000 graduates annually, underlining the challenge of preparing the Indonesian workforce for an AI-driven economy.
Government collaboration
"The government is present to ensure that every citizen has equal opportunities to grow. Collaboration with industries such as Indosat reflects the government's commitment to accelerating the adoption of technologies that open new avenues for innovation, both for the academic community and students. Research and development must be directed toward solving real societal challenges and creating meaningful impact. Through the development of smart technology, we aim to deliver inclusive access to education, aligned with the vision of Indonesia Emas 2045 to cultivate globally competitive talent," said Mohammad Fauzan Adziman, Director General of Research and Development, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia.
Industry-academia link
Through its AI Day events, Indosat is working to create stronger connections between universities and industry. The focus is to enable a platform for knowledge exchange and to support the use of AI in both academic research and the education process. The company says this collaboration is intended to ensure that Indonesian graduates are equipped with the skills required to compete globally in the digital economy.
Borderless learning
"Indonesia AI Day for Higher Education is a tangible manifestation of Indosat's commitment to enabling inclusive access to educational technology across the nation. Through this initiative, Indosat strives to demonstrate that technology can serve as a bridge toward borderless learning, unlocking opportunities for every young generation to grow in the age of artificial intelligence," said Muhammad Buldansyah, Director & Chief Business Officer, Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison.
AI curriculum push
Indosat's programme aims to introduce a digital-first approach in academic settings, highlighting the application of AI to improve learning outcomes and research output. The initiative supports broader efforts to encourage AI and digital skill development, with an eye on realigning university curricula towards emerging industry needs as Indonesia looks ahead to digital transformation targets for 2045.
