UNAIR NEWS – The Studium Generale, a major event of the 37th National Student Science Week (PIMNAS), was held on Friday (October 18, 2024), at the Candradimuka Auditorium, GKB C, MERR-C Campus, Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR). The event featured several speakers aimed at inspiring students, with PIMNAS Executive Chair Prof. Dr. Eduardus Bimo Aksono Herupradoto, drh, Mkes, giving the opening address.
Prof. Herupradoto explained that the Studium Generale’s objective is to provide participants with insights and motivation. “Today, we will hear inspiring stories from experienced innovators. This will be an invaluable opportunity for students to broaden their perspectives,” he stated.
Enhancing research human resources
Raden Arthur Ario Lelono, PhD, Director of Talent Management at BRIN (National Research and Innovation Agency), delivered a keynote speech. He outlined BRIN’s initiatives to develop human resources in Indonesia’s research and innovation sectors, particularly through the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) program.
“BRIN has allocated 1,876 spots for students in the MBKM program. Students can apply to be research assistants while finishing their final projects. This is a great chance to gain practical research experience,” Lelono said.
He also introduced several key BRIN programs in research and innovation, such as the Indonesian Robot Contest (KRI), On-MIPA, Gemastik, the National Unmanned Fast Boat Contest (KKCTBN), the Energy Efficient Car Contest (KMHE), and PIMNAS itself.
“These programs are designed to support students interested in research and innovation. Additionally, the research assistant program offers students the opportunity to gain deep experience in research and the potential to continue research-based studies under the guidance of a research mentor,” he explained.
Doctoral Talent Scholarship Program
BRIN, in collaboration with the Indonesian Endowment Fund for Education (LPDP), has launched the Doctoral Talent Scholarship for research and innovation. Lelono stated that the program offers opportunities for researchers to pursue postdoctoral studies. “This program offers full scholarship funding for master’s and doctoral degrees, with age limits of 25 for master’s applicants and 27 for doctoral applicants,” he noted.
In conclusion, Lelono emphasized that the foundation of a successful research career is a strong passion for the field. “PIMNAS participants are the future leaders in research. If you are interested in pursuing research, BRIN has various programs designed to help you succeed,” he concluded.
Author: Hana Mufidatuz Zuhrah
Editor: Edwin Fatahuddi
