Université Paris-Saclay steps up its initiatives in Indonesia
In early November 2025, a delegation from Université Paris-Saclay, led by Rachid Bennacer, vice-president delegated to research, travelled to Indonesia for an exploratory mission organised alongside the major European higher education fair (EHEF). The programme included meetings with leading institutions, the identification of new partnerships, and exchanges on topics of mutual interest.
This visit forms part of France’s strategy to strengthen collaborations with Indonesia, a G20 member, the world’s fourth most populous country and a fast-growing economy in the Indo-Pacific region.
With the support of the Embassy of France in Indonesia and the Institut français, the delegation held numerous meetings and exchanges throughout the week with:
- The management of BRIN, the country’s main research organisation, its electronics and informatics department (OREI BRIN), as well as BMKG, the Indonesian meteorological agency, a key player in climate-related issues in the region;
- The Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education Agency (LPDP), the main provider of scholarships for Indonesian citizens wishing to study in France, particularly at doctoral level in fields aligned with national priorities. LPDP, which has an agreement with France, has identified Université Paris-Saclay as a key partner for hosting doctoral candidates in STEM disciplines, with significant investment planned to increase their numbers;
- Three flagship universities: the University of Indonesia, the Bandung Institute of Technology and the Bogor Agricultural Institute. Concrete avenues for cooperation have emerged in mechanical engineering and agriculture, including double-degree programmes at master’s level, exchange agreements, and matchmaking activities between academic staff and researchers;
- Many other institutions were also engaged, notably during the reception hosted at the Embassy of France, which brought together 27 Indonesian institutions and 17 French institutions.
A strong presence at the EHEF fair
At the same time, Université Paris-Saclay was present at the European Higher Education Fair (EHEF) in both host cities, Yogyakarta and Jakarta. This annual event allows European institutions to meet prospective Indonesian students directly. The 2025 edition attracted more than 10,000 visitors in Yogyakarta and Jakarta over three days. France was the most represented country, reflecting a strong commitment to attracting more Indonesian students.
Laying the foundations for a lasting collaboration
Although Indonesia’s scientific cooperation has historically been oriented towards other countries in the region, this mission helped to raise the profile of Université Paris-Saclay and French higher education. It lays the foundations for the trust-based relationships essential for the development of future academic and scientific collaborations, benefiting both countries.
