Balikpapan — The Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia, Prof. Ir. Brian Yuliarto, Ph.D., held a dialogue session with the academic community of Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK) during his working visit to the ITK campus on Wednesday (May 6, 2026).

The event, held at ITK Integrated Laboratory I, became a strategic discussion forum on strengthening the quality of higher education, research development, innovation, and university readiness in supporting national development and Indonesia’s new capital city (IKN).

During the dialogue, the Minister discussed directly with the Rector of ITK, Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Agus Rubiyanto, M.Eng.Sc., regarding ITK’s progress, campus development direction, as well as challenges and opportunities for higher education in Kalimantan.

The ITK Rector presented various institutional achievements, including the strengthening of international accreditation, improvements in learning and research facilities, and the development of study programs aligned with future needs and the development of IKN.

The discussion also addressed the acceleration of ITK’s campus development and future expansion plans. On this occasion, the Rector explained the follow-up plans for campus development, which will continue through coordination and further discussions with regional governments as part of strengthening ITK’s strategic role in Kalimantan and the IKN region.

Responding to this matter, the Minister expressed his support for ITK’s development and campus expansion acceleration plans. He also stated that the Ministry would assist in coordinating with regional leaders in East Kalimantan to support infrastructure strengthening and the future development of ITK.

The discussion further emphasized the importance of collaboration among universities, government, and industry in creating highly competent human resources capable of adapting to technological advancement and global transformation.

Also attending the event were the Vice Chairperson of Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Dr. Ir. Hetifah Sjaifudian, members of the ITK leadership, lecturers, education staff, and other members of the academic community.

The event was conducted in a warm and interactive atmosphere, serving as a momentum to strengthen synergy between the central government and higher education institutions in encouraging a more impactful, innovative, and competitive higher education transformation.

Through the spirit of ITK Berdampak, Institut Teknologi Kalimantan remains committed to becoming a strategic university that actively contributes to the development of human resources and the national innovation ecosystem.