The Indonesian government has begun to prioritise infrastructure projects to be implemented this year in order to ensure that the budget is used effectively. Several technical ministries have been instructed to open calls for tender.

One of the most prestigious projects that will be initiated this year is the construction of 13 dams in a number of regions including Central Java, Aceh, Banten, South Kalimantan, Bali, North Sulawesi, West NTT and East NTT.

In order to meet its infrastructure needs, the government has identified a significant shortage of around 240,000 qualified engineers. However according to the head of the Indonesian Association of Engineers (PII), the number of Indonesian engineering graduates increases at a rate of only 40,000 people per year. In order to reach the shortfall of 240,000 engineers within five years, that means an increase of 8,000 engineering graduates per year.

Overall, it is predicted that Indonesia will need 18.3 million university graduates by 2035, of which 4 million should be engineering graduates

However in order to keep engineering graduates in the industry the government needs incentives to motivate them such as a competitive manufacturing and R&D ecosystem.

British Council Commentary:

The growing need for qualified graduate engineers in Indonesia opens up opportunities for HEIs to recruit engineering students at UG and PG levels.

It also allows for more collaboration in research in engineering sectors between the UK and Indonesia.

There is a need for ‘work ready’ graduates so work placements and industry experience as well as professional accreditation should be highlighted where relevant.

Infrastructure projects mentioned in addition to the dam project include building of highways, railroads and power stations. Special mention was made of maritime infrastructure

Source print edition of Kompas, 10.1.15 as reported by (Indonesian language): http://baranews.co/web/read/29850/pemerintah.memilih.proyek.realistis