In response to the accelerating pace of globalization and industrial development, synergy between higher education institutions and the business sector has become increasingly essential. This urgency served as the foundation for the CURVE Forum 2025 (Corporate University Relationship and Visionary Engagement), held at MG Setos Hotel, Semarang, on Monday, June 23.
Initiated by the CURVE Forum Committee, comprising representatives from several Muhammadiyah and ‘Aisyiyah Higher Education Institutions (PTMA) across Java, the event aimed to bridge the gap between industry demands for skilled labor and the academic potential nurtured within universities. The forum served as a strategic platform to foster sustainable collaboration in human resource development, innovation, education, research, and the application of technology in industrial sectors.
Participants came from a wide range of PTMA institutions across Indonesia, including Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS), Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY), Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (UAD), Universitas Muhammadiyah Semarang (UNIMUS), Universitas ‘Aisyiyah Yogyakarta (UNISA Yogyakarta), Universitas Muhammadiyah Gresik (UM Gresik), among many others.
The forum featured a distinguished lineup of speakers from diverse strategic backgrounds, including:
- Prof. Jamhari Makruf, M.A., Ph.D. (Majlis Diktilitbang, Muhammadiyah Central Board),
- Dr. Agustina Wilujeng Pramestuti, S.S., M.M. (Mayor of Semarang),
- Nurul Huda, M.Kom., Ph.D. (cand.) (Rector, Muhammadiyah Institute of Technology, Statistics, and Business Semarang; former General Manager, PT Korin Jaya),
- Priyo Suyono (President Director, PT Internet Mulia Untuk Negeri / NEXA).
During the forum, Nurul Huda highlighted the challenges faced by Indonesia’s higher education system, which, in his view, remains overly theoretical. He pointed out that the dominance of theoretical instruction in classrooms often leaves graduates unprepared for the practical demands of the job market.
“Classroom instruction that is limited to theory creates boundaries for university graduates to access significant opportunities in the industrial world, which predominantly requires practical skills,” said Nurul.
He underscored the urgency for higher education reform focused on real collaboration between universities and industries. Nurul cited successful models from South Korea, such as partnerships between universities and Hyundai, as well as joint recruitment initiatives between Taiwanese universities and tech companies, as best practices that Indonesia could emulate.
Echoing these sentiments, Priyo Suyono emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration among industry, government, and academia to develop a superior human workforce. He emphasized that today’s industries seek not only “job-ready” employees, but individuals equipped with scientific intelligence, not merely artificial intelligence.
“We hope this collaboration will encompass internship programs, talent scouting, and early skill development. This way, companies can identify and nurture talent from the very beginning,” Priyo explained.
Further, Prof. Jamhari emphasized that cooperation between universities and industry can begin with small, consistent initiatives.
“Collaboration can start from small steps and grow into a snowball effect. Consistency and commitment are key to transforming small efforts into impactful, large-scale partnerships,” he added.
As part of the event, each participating university was required to showcase flagship research-based innovations developed within their institutions. These innovations were featured in the Research and Innovation Expo Booths, which formed an integral component of the CURVE Forum 2025. The exhibition provided a dynamic platform for collaboration and presentation, featuring diverse products ranging from appropriate technology, health and food innovations, to digital and AI-driven solutions. These products reflected the academic strengths and innovative spirit of PTMA students and lecturers alike.
The expo drew further attention with the presence of industry partners from various sectors. They engaged not only as visitors but also as potential strategic partners in the commercialization of university research outputs. Several industrial representatives even expressed interest in exploring future collaborative opportunities.
CURVE Forum 2025 marks a pivotal moment in strengthening strategic ties between the academic and industrial worlds, fostering the development of globally competitive human capital, rooted in academic excellence, ethical values, and humanity.
