Samarinda - Higher education institutions are no longer merely places for learning; they must serve as key drivers of transformation. This was emphasized by the Rector of Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK), Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Agus Rubiyanto, M.Eng.Sc., while serving as a keynote speaker at the Basic Training for Civil Servant Candidates (CPNS) Batch V and VI 2026, held at the Center for Learning and Public Service Policy Strategy (Pusjar SKPP), National Institute of Public Administration (LAN RI) Samarinda, Friday (April 24, 2026).

In his lecture titled “Campus as the Locomotive of Civilization: Transforming Human Resources and Innovation for National Prosperity,” the Rector highlighted the strategic role of higher education in strengthening national competitiveness through the development of human capital and sustainable innovation.

“Universities must become engines of growth not only producing graduates, but also preparing creative, competitive human capital capable of addressing future challenges,” he stated.

From Tri Dharma to Real Impact

In his presentation, the Rector explained that the Tri Dharma of Higher Education education, research, and community service must be integrated and oriented toward tangible impact.

Education serves as the foundation for character building and competency development, research acts as a source of innovation, while community service ensures that knowledge generated is truly beneficial to society.

This approach is reinforced through the hexa-helix collaboration model, involving universities, government, industry, society, communities, and media. Such collaboration is considered essential in accelerating research downstreaming and addressing real-world challenges.

Impactful Research, Beyond Publications

The Rector also underscored the importance of transforming research in higher education. According to him, research should not stop at academic publications but must translate into real solutions for society.

Key priorities include:

•  Research downstreaming to ensure practical implementation 
•  Technological independence to reduce reliance on imports 
•  Leveraging local potential as a foundation for regional economic development 

“Research must move beyond library shelves and become real solutions for society,” he emphasized.

Community Service as a Bridge Between Knowledge and Society

Beyond research, community service plays a crucial role. Universities are expected to actively contribute to community empowerment through:

•  Assistance for MSMEs and cooperatives 
•  Transfer of appropriate technology to rural areas 
•  Strengthening local economy based on regional potential 

This role positions universities not only as centers of knowledge but also as strategic partners in development.

Building Future-Ready Human Resources

Through this forum, the Rector encouraged CPNS participants, as future civil servants, to embrace innovation, collaboration, and integrity in carrying out their duties.

With this foundation, it is expected that they will not only perform administrative functions but also become agents of change who drive national progress.

Synergy for a More Advanced Indonesia

This activity organized by LAN RI serves as a strategic platform to bridge ideas between academia and government. ITK’s participation reflects the active role of higher education institutions in strengthening the capacity of public servants.

Through cross-sector collaboration, the transformation of human resources and innovation is expected to become a strong foundation for a more advanced, independent, and prosperous Indonesia.