Indonesian Delegation visits German Universities of Applied Sciences (HAWs)

Since 2020, significant reforms have been implemented in Indonesia’s higher education system. The reforms aim to build closer links with industry, encourage applied research and ensure students gain valuable practical experience through high-quality internships and projects.

Germany’s Universities of Applied Sciences provide an excellent example of these reforms. With their long-standing tradition of collaborating with companies and industry, they combine academic teaching with practical training and research to prepare students for the demands of the job market.

The delegation to Germany comprised senior representatives from prominent public and private universities, the National Research and Innovation Authority, and the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology. Together, they explored how Germany’s Higher Applied Sciences (HAW) model could inspire future reforms in Indonesia. The study visit centred on three pressing global issues: climate change, the shift towards renewable energy and food security. These are important issues for both Indonesia and Germany and will form the basis of future academic collaboration.

The delegates visited TH Köln, HS Heilbronn, HS RheinMain, HS Darmstadt and the University of Bonn. They toured laboratories, research centres and teaching facilities at these institutions, gaining direct insights into the collaboration between universities and industry.

In addition to the campus visits, two matchmaking sessions were held with a further seven Universities of Applied Sciences. These events provided an opportunity to develop academic connections, discuss potential projects and explore collaborative research and teaching initiatives.

The visit gave participants a deeper understanding of the German higher education system. They recognised the value of practice-oriented teaching, modern infrastructure, robust innovation support and institutional autonomy, which enables universities to play a key role in the innovation system.

The study visit generated new momentum for collaboration in higher education between Germany and Indonesia. DAAD Regional Office Jakarta and its partners will continue to promote the HAW model and encourage cooperation in areas such as climate, energy and food security.