EduAsiaNews, Banjarmasin – Universitas Lambung Mangkurat (ULM) has officially become one of the strategic partners of the Nusantara Capital Authority (OIKN) in supporting the development of Nusantara as a living laboratory for science and innovation. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed at the OIKN Office on Tuesday (June 9, 2026), alongside three other higher education institutions: Universitas Padjadjaran (Unpad), UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang, and Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS).
Secretary of the Nusantara Capital Authority, Bimo Adi Nursanthyasto, emphasized the importance of academic involvement to ensure that the development of IKN is not solely focused on physical infrastructure but is also driven by research and innovation. Nusantara is envisioned as a multidisciplinary collaboration hub that connects government, industry, and higher education institutions.
“We envision Nusantara as a real-world learning environment for students as well as a collaborative platform for developing solutions that are relevant to future development challenges,” said Bimo.
Rector Prof. Dr. Ahmad Alim Bachri, S.E., M.Si., stated that the partnership represents an important opportunity for ULM to expand the implementation of the Tri Dharma of Higher Education. Through collaboration in research, internships, and community service programs, ULM is committed to making tangible contributions to the development of IKN as Indonesia’s new center of civilization.
“ULM is ready to serve as a strategic partner by providing scientific studies, innovations, and data-driven policy recommendations. The presence of Nusantara as a living laboratory creates significant opportunities for lecturers and students to engage directly in national development,” he said.
The collaboration also highlights the importance of enhancing the capacity of local human resources in communities surrounding the IKN area. Together with its partner universities, ULM will contribute to knowledge transfer, community empowerment initiatives, and workforce competency development to ensure that local communities are well prepared to compete in an era of science- and technology-driven economic transformation.
With its academic resources and international networks, ULM reaffirms its commitment as an Impactful University, contributing not only to the advancement of knowledge but also to delivering practical solutions for sustainable development in South Kalimantan and Nusantara.
