Breaking the Walls of Innovation: Falling Walls Lab Indonesia 2025 Successfully Held at PCU Surabaya

Organised by the DAAD Regional Office Jakarta in collaboration with Petra Christian University, the event is part of the global Falling Walls Labs network, which fosters cross-disciplinary collaboration, promotes science and innovation, and connects emerging talents with the international research and academic community. 

As the host institution, PCU created an inspiring and supportive atmosphere, strengthening Surabaya’s position as one of Indonesia’s hubs for academic excellence and innovation. 

The DAAD Regional Office Jakarta, the official representative of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) in Indonesia, has been bringing the Falling Walls Lab to the country for many years as part of its commitment to fostering academic exchange and connecting Indonesian talent with the global innovation ecosystem. With its unique 3-minute, 3-slide format, participants are challenged to present their ideas concisely and clearly, honing the communication skills that are essential for the global stage. 

This year, 22 finalists from various academic backgrounds — ranging from undergraduate to doctoral level — presented groundbreaking ideas in STEM & technology, social sciences, and medicine. After an inspiring round of presentations, Fadhilah Trya Wulandari emerged as the first-place winner with Breaking the Wall of Climate Injustice for People with Disabilities, an idea recognised for its originality, clarity, and transformative potential.

Alfred Susanto claimed second place with Breaking the Wall of Unrecyclable Plastics, impressing the jury with its strong applicability and impact.

The third place went to Resda Syahrani for Breaking the Wall of Breast Cancer Treatment, a compelling concept that showcased creativity and dedication to solving pressing issues. 

The 1st place winner, Fadhilah Trya Wulandari will represent Indonesia at the Falling Walls Lab Global Finale in Berlin in November 6, 2025, joining young innovators from around the world to present their ideas to an esteemed international jury. 

“The Falling Walls Lab Competition proves that science and visionary thinking can transcend borders and connect people from diverse backgrounds. We sincerely thank Petra Christian University for their outstanding support, which made this event a resounding success,” said Dr. Guido Schnieders, Director of the DAAD Regional Office Jakarta. 

The success of Falling Walls Lab Indonesia 2025 at PCU demonstrates that partnerships between higher education institutions and international organisations can create collaborative spaces where transformative ideas for the future can emerge.