Jakarta, July 31 -- Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology ( Mendiktisaintek ), Brian Yuliarto, has emphasized the crucial role universities can play as research and development hubs in boosting national economic growth.

During a media briefing in Jakarta on Thursday, the minister noted that Indonesia is currently aiming for 8 percent economic growth. To meet this target, it will need to focus on development proposals based on science and technology, rather than conventional economic expansion.

"Our nation can stand on equal footing with more advanced countries, but we need the right proposals to achieve solid economic growth," he said.

To support the goal, the minister called for strengthening science and technology cur...