“Do not be too proud of natural resources. Nations progress not because of natural wealth, but because of their people. The main key is education,” he said during a scientific oration at Sriwijaya University’s 65th anniversary in Palembang, Sunday.
Karnavian argued that while Indonesia’s natural assets rival those of global powers like the United States, Russia, and India, they are insufficient without a well-educated, healthy, and skilled population.
He pointed to Singapore as a model of how strategic investment in education can transform a small state into a global economic force.
The minister highlighted Indonesia’s demographic advantage, with nearly 69 percent of its population in the productive age bracket (15–64 years).
To harness this potential, he stressed the need for robust education and healthcare systems—pillars of the national vision for “Golden Indonesia 2045.”
He also praised President Prabowo Subianto’s administration for aligning with this vision through initiatives such as Sekolah Rakyat or People’s School for underprivileged children, Sekolah Garuda for nurturing talent, and scholarships in strategic fields like medicine.
Echoing Karnavian’s message, Padjadjaran University lecturer Arfin Sudirman noted that “abundant natural resources are futile without skilled, tech-savvy human resources and strong research-based policies.”
Translator: Fianda, Kenzu
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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