Jayapura – Deputy for Research and Regional Innovation at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) Yopi explained that research development in Papua must consider local wisdom. The rich culture and traditional knowledge of the Papuan people can be a source of inspiration and innovation.
“Local wisdom must be the main foundation in every research conducted. It is not only about preserving culture, but also exploring potential that can provide added value to the community,” he said during his working visit to the Regional Planning, Research Development and Innovation Agency (BAPPERIDA) in Jayapura, Papua Province.
The visit aimed to discuss strategic steps in building a sustainable research and innovation ecosystem in Papua. Yopi emphasized the important role of BRIDA / BAPPERIDA as the driving force of research at the regional level.
“BRIDA/BAPPERIDA has a strategic position as a bridge between the local government, research institutions, and the community. This role is important to ensure that research and innovation do not just become academic documents, but really have an impact on regional development,” he said.
Yopi also added that it is necessary to increase PAD, MSMEs, empower the community and encourage research in Papua to be directed to support priority sectors such as education, health, creative economy, and environmental conservation. “Papua has tremendous potential that has not been fully explored. With the right research approach, we can open up great opportunities for better development,” he said.
Secretary of BRIN’s Deputy for Regional Research and Innovation Wiwiek Joelijani, in her presentation conveyed the duties and functions of BRIDA/BAPPERIDA, and emphasized the role of orchestration and think tank carried out by BRIDA/BAPPERIDA.
“Technically, BRIDA / BAPPERIDA plays a role in producing evidence-based studies as a basis for policy recommendations. Monitoring the implementation of programs run by technical DPOs, so that the sustainability of the program can produce positive impacts for the community and the region. Furthermore, cooperation with BRIN to utilize research results, and BRIN studies can be submitted according to regional needs,” he explained.
Meanwhile, the Acting Head of BAPPERIDA of Papua Province, John Wicklif Tegai, conveyed the challenges faced by Papua after the division of the region, namely a decrease in the Papua Provincial APBD allocation. Meanwhile, the budget burden for personnel expenditure is still large. This is a challenge in supporting research and innovation activities.
“We are ready to collaborate with BRIN in building a research ecosystem that is inclusive and adaptive to local needs. We are also committed to becoming BRIN’s strategic partner in developing research in Papua, including integrating research results with regional development programs,” he concluded.
BRIN and BAPPERIDA are committed to continue developing local wisdom-based research that can provide real solutions for the development and welfare of the Papuan people.
The Working Visit of the Deputy for Regional Research of the National Research and Innovation Agency and the Secretary of the Deputy for Regional Research and Innovation and his entourage to Papua continued with a visit to the Papua Youth Creative Hub (PYCH) in Jayapura on Tuesday (10/12/2024). This visit aims to see firsthand the various activities and facilities that support the creativity and innovation of Papuan youth, such as the PYCH Music Studio, photo studio, podcast studio, and other facilities.
