Bengkulu, Tuesday (August 19) – Vice Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Diktisaintek), Prof. Stella Christie, Ph.D., paid an official visit to Universitas Muhammadiyah Bengkulu (UM Bengkulu) as part of a national agenda to strengthen leading research and technological development in universities.

Prof. Stella was warmly welcomed by Rector Dr. Susiyanto, M.Si., along with UM Bengkulu’s leadership team and faculty researchers. In her remarks, she emphasized the importance of nurturing a strong culture of research and innovation on campus. She further encouraged research rooted in local culture as a unique strength and competitive advantage. “I strongly encourage research based on local culture and heritage, which will become UM Bengkulu’s distinguishing value at both national and international levels,” she said.

She also praised the research presentations delivered by UM Bengkulu scholars. “I am proud of the research presented, particularly those highlighting local culture and traditions—such as Tabot within the perspective of Mathematics learning. Such studies are not only fascinating but also directly impactful on society,” noted Prof. Stella. She further reassured that the national research budget remains unaffected by the government’s efficiency program. “We continue to encourage lecturers to pursue research, and we are grateful that the central government has not cut research funding—in fact, an additional IDR 1.8 trillion has been allocated,” she added.

Rector Dr. Susiyanto, M.Si., expressed his deep appreciation for the Vice Minister’s visit, calling it a positive signal for private universities, including UM Bengkulu. “Through the Vice Minister, we hope for equality in research development and funding between public and private universities, since solving national challenges and advancing scientific research require balanced support,” he stated. He further affirmed UM Bengkulu’s commitment to promoting research despite relying on internal funding. “We will continue to cultivate a research culture to position UM Bengkulu alongside leading universities at national and international levels. Moving forward, we hope Diktisaintek will provide greater attention and research funding allocation for private universities,” he concluded.