Nurturing the Digital Workforce: UPH Launches Faculty of Artificial Intelligence to Power Indonesia’s Future Economy
In a bold step toward shaping Indonesia’s next generation of innovators, Universitas Pelita Harapan (UPH) has launched its Faculty of Artificial Intelligence, an initiative designed to equip future professionals with the skills, values, and vision needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven economy.
Themed “Towards the Era of Deep Learning,” the launch marks UPH’s commitment to advancing education that not only keeps pace with global technological shifts but also fuels national productivity and sustainable economic growth.
Building the Human Capital of Tomorrow
The launch ceremony, held at the Ministry of Elementary and Secondary Education in Jakarta, brought together leaders from government, academia, and industry. In his remarks, Minister Prof. Dr. Abdul Mu’ti, MEd underscored that AI education will be a cornerstone in preparing Indonesia’s Golden Generation 2045. “We congratulate UPH for opening the AI Faculty and appreciate the scholarship program for Indonesia’s young talents,” he said, affirming the initiative’s role in expanding digital opportunity.
Dr. Mochtar Riady, founder of Lippo Group, highlighted that the AI discipline is indispensable for Indonesia’s global competitiveness. “AI is one of the most important technologies of our time. Strategic alliances with international partners, such as those with China, will ensure our technology adoption benefits the national economy,” he stated.
Dr. Jonathan L. Parapak, UPH Rector, emphasized that the new faculty represents a strategic investment in Indonesia’s human capital. “We are preparing a generation ready to innovate, create jobs, and lead responsibly in the digital era,” he said.
Education for Employability and Ethical Innovation
The Faculty of Artificial Intelligence offers an international-standard curriculum covering Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Computer Vision, Large Language Models, and Ethical AI. Its Practice-Centered Learning (PCL) model bridges theory and practice through industry projects, ensuring graduates enter the workforce ready to contribute to innovation-driven industries.
Dean Dr. Rizaldi Sistiabudi explained that the program emphasizes both technical mastery and moral responsibility. “We aim to create AI professionals who combine innovation with integrity, capable of making ethical decisions that serve society and advance human progress.”
To strengthen workplace readiness, UPH has forged partnerships with MetaCarbon, Zhejiang University, and companies within the Lippo Group—including Nobu Bank, Siloam Hospitals, and Multipolar. These collaborations open pathways for internships, applied research, and international exposure, ensuring students gain practical experience while contributing to sustainable industry growth.
Driving Inclusive and Sustainable Economic Growth
By developing talent in high-value digital sectors, UPH’s AI Faculty directly supports the expansion of productive employment and inclusive economic development. Graduates are prepared for emerging roles such as:
- AI Engineer / Machine Learning Engineer
- AI Developer / Analyst / Research Scientist
- AI Ethics Specialist
These careers—spanning finance, healthcare, retail, and global technology—represent the vanguard of Indonesia’s transformation into a knowledge-based economy.
Through internship-integrated coursework and career mentorship, students cultivate the adaptability and lifelong learning mindset essential for sustaining employability in fast-changing industries. The program’s emphasis on innovation, productivity, and decent work mirrors the broader national vision of a workforce that drives growth without compromising ethical standards or social responsibility.
Expanding Access and Opportunity
To ensure inclusivity, UPH has launched the Nusantara AI Scholarship, which offers financial aid to promising students from diverse backgrounds. This initiative demonstrates the university’s commitment to widening access to quality education and ensuring that economic progress is rooted in equal opportunity.
UPH President Dr. Stephanie Riady noted that early AI literacy is key to youth empowerment: “In the face of rapid transformation, understanding AI gives young Indonesians the tools to lead innovation rather than be left behind by it.”
Cultivating Leaders of Integrity and Innovation
Beyond skills training, the Faculty of Artificial Intelligence integrates UPH’s foundational values of True Knowledge, Faith in Christ, and Godly Character. Its holistic education approach nurtures integrity-driven leaders who view technology not just as a career path but as a platform for service, stewardship, and sustainable growth.
By aligning education with the evolving demands of the global economy, UPH’s Faculty of AI ensures its graduates are not only job-ready but also purpose-driven—advancing innovation that uplifts communities, strengthens industries, and contributes to a prosperous and equitable future for Indonesia.