Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Supports Bosscha to Bolster its Contribution to Astronomy
By Adi Permana
Editor Adi Permana
LEMBANG, itb.ac.id—The Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology of Indonesia, Nadiem Anwar Makarim, B.A., M.B.A., gave a welcoming speech during the 100th Ceremony of ITB Bosscha Observatory on Monday (30/01/2023). Through a video, he expressed his appreciation for the observatory’s accomplishment, declaring it a monumental event for Indonesia.
The journey of Bosscha Observatory has contributed to the development of science and innovation in astronomy. The study of astronomy has spurred intense competitions between countries to explore the world outside Earth and discover new potential and future.
“Bosscha Observatory rises to become the leading science facility in Indonesia. Thus, we should use it to actively contribute to the field of astronomy on the global stage,” Nadiem stated.
Nadiem declared Institut Teknologi Bandung as the only university in Indonesia that offers astronomy as a study program from bachelor to doctorate degrees. With world-class facilities that researchers around the globe frequently visit, ITB is aware of the importance of public knowledge about astronomy to guide future young scientists in Indonesia.
The Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology encourages both students and professors to learn, create and collaborate with one another, in-campus or outside the campus. Through the MBKM (Merdeka Belajar Kampus Mangajar) program, the study of astronomy can be shared to a wider audience from generation to generation, especially to those attending schools in 3T (rural and underdeveloped) regions.
In 2023, the MBKM program will increase its quota of participants in hopes of expanding students’ interests to join in sharing knowledge. The program strives to contribute to the development of astronomy in Indonesia as well as the world.
“Let us remember the 100th celebration of Bosscha Observatory as a momentum of collaboration and commitment in advancing the field of astronomy,” Nadiem concluded.
Reporter: Pravito Septadenova Dwi Ananta (Geological Engineering, 2019)
Translator: Ruth Nathania (Environmental Engineering, 2019)