The Ministry of Communication and Digital Technology (Kemkomdigi) and Universitas Brawijaya (UB) officially launched Indonesia’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) Talent Factory in Malang, East Java (21/8).

The program aims to develop AI talents who can create original solutions and products by Indonesian innovators.

Importance of AI Talent Factory for Reducing Foreign Dependence

Universitas Brawijaya Rector, Prof. Widodo, stressed the importance of the initiative to reduce Indonesia’s reliance on foreign AI products.

He said, “Almost all AI products used by society today come from abroad. However, Indonesian youth are actually capable of creating their own. With this program, the hope is that we not only use foreign products but also utilize AI made by our own people.”

Urgent Demand for Digital Talent in Indonesia

Bonifasius Wahyu Pudjianto, Head of Human Resources Development Agency at Kemkomdigi, highlighted the urgent need for digital talents.

“We calculated the demand for digital talent, especially for the next five years until 2030. The shortage reaches around 453,000 per year. This paradox is interesting. Indeed, we must shift the workforce from blue-collar to white-collar jobs,” he said.

Advanced-Level Training and Learning Methodology

The AI Talent Factory is designed to produce advanced talent rather than basic training.

“We want to extend the runway to the level of AI practitioners and specialists. Although the number is small, they will become drivers of change for our AI industry,” Bonifasius added.

Said Mirza Pahlevi, Head of the Digital Talent Development Center, explained the learning approac,h emphasizing collaboration and real solutions.

“Around 50 percent of activities are discussions and brainstorming guided by experts. Participants also do independent exploration to create prototypes and portfolios. Only about 20 percent is self-directed learning,” he said.

Expected Outcomes for Indonesia’s AI Industry

This approach is expected to generate original Indonesian use case solutions and intellectual property.

The AI Talent Factory will also serve as a model for establishing AI talent centers across the country.

PHOTO: KEKOMDIGI

This article was created with AI assistance.