FMIPA UI Supports Transformation of Technology Education in Papua through Mappi AI Hub Collaboration

The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Indonesia (FMIPA UI) affirmed its commitment to supporting educational transformation in the eastern region of Indonesia by actively participating in utilizing AI technology to help improve the quality of education by providing full support to Mappi Regency in the Mappi AI Hub Program. This event was held at the Qhaindau Uri Building, Kepi, Mappi Regency, South Papua, on Friday (2/5).

FMIPA UI's participation in this collaboration is in line with its mission to create inclusive and sustainable education throughout Indonesia. The Dean of FMIPA UI, Prof. Dede Djuhana, Ph.D., was present at the inauguration and expressed his appreciation for the Mappi Regency Government's progressive initiative in collaborating with universities in building a technology-based education ecosystem in the Eastern Indonesia Region.

"Thank you to the Mappi Regency Government for collaborating with the University of Indonesia Institute of Applied Sciences (LST UI). This program is a strategic step to introduce the latest technology, especially Artificial Intelligence (AI), to our children," said Prof. Dede.

Prof. Dede also emphasized that this collaboration is in line with the program of the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education of the Republic of Indonesia (Kemendikdasmen RI) regarding the curriculum for learning coding and artificial intelligence at the elementary school level. Therefore, FMIPA UI through this collaboration also supports the implementation of the program.

"We hope that this program can form a young generation who are confident, have global competitiveness, and are motivated to continue their higher education at the best universities, including the University of Indonesia," he added.

Mappi AI Hub is not only intended for students, but also provides training for educators. This training includes the creation of contextual and interesting teaching materials, such as educational animations and the development of technology-based research and content.

"The main goal is to shape the character and abilities of students who are not only academically ready, but also have a global perspective," said Prof. Dede.

This collaboration is facilitated by the Special Work Unit of the Applied Science Institute (UKK-LST) FMIPA UI, which has been active in consulting services, training, laboratory testing, and certification to support industry and national development.

Eko Waludi, S.T., M.Sc., Head of the FMIPA UI Applied Science Institute, added that this program is part of UI's commitment to presenting real impacts of science and technology for society.

"UKK LST FMIPA UI is present as a bridge between academics and real needs in the field. Through the Mappi AI Hub program, we want to equip teachers and students with applicable and relevant technology skills to help the government improve the quality of education in Indonesia," said Eko.

Through this synergy, FMIPA UI hopes to be part of the solution to building a smarter, more independent, and more competitive future for Papua.