The cooperation agreement was signed virtually by ITB University Secretary Prof. Dr.-Ing. Ir. Widjaja Martokusumo with the Secretary-General of UCLG ASPAC Dr. Ir. Bernadia Irawati Tjandradewi, M.Sc., MPP. ITB was not the only one who carried out this MoU. The University of Indonesia and Diponegoro University also signed this MoU, especially their SDGs Centers. This collaboration could support higher education programs in achieving the SDGs Center targets.

In his speech, Prof. Widjaja said, "ITB as the oldest technical university often becomes the benchmark for the development of science and technology." ITB sought to place technological advancements to provide benefits in essential public services, including infrastructure, superstructure, and decision-making optimization. "Furthermore, we strive to support the achievement of global commitments contained in the new urban agenda and the implementation of the SDGs through education, research, and community service," he said.

Prof. Widjaja added that the Covid-19 pandemic situation was an extraordinary challenge and misery. Pandemic also impacted the SDGs targets' achievement and prompted various adjustments by repositioning, reducing, and reallocating development budgets and programs.

"We recognize that the university's position is very strategic in helping the SDGS's achievement and preparation, especially in researching and providing strategic policies' implementation. The results can be used as input for all implementing elements of SDGs through Tridharma Perguruan Tinggi (Three Pillars of Higher Education)," he said.

Prof. Widjaja hoped this collaboration could be beneficial for education, research, and community service activities in cities in Asia-Pacific. He also hoped it would encourage Indonesia to take an active role in achieving SDGs at the Asia-Pacific level in the future. "We hope this becomes a commitment so we can achieve a better goal together," he concluded.

On the other hand, Dr. Bernadia expressed her gratitude for the excellent cooperation with universities in implementing the SDGs up to this point. "Thank you to the ITB SDGs Center for helping us develop VSR for Indonesia," she said.

According to her, this signing was not merely symbolic because it had led to real actions. "Hopefully, in the future, we can work on more things together. Only nine years are left for the SDGs. By 2030, completing them is absolutely necessary," she said.

Reporter: Adi Permana (PR of ITB)
Translator: Zahra Annisa Fitri (Urban and Regional Planning, 2019)