UGM and Hitachi Enhance Research and Innovation Collaboration for Industry Impact
Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) and Hitachi Asia Indonesia have reinforced their collaboration in cross-disciplinary research and innovation, aiming to produce outcomes that benefit industry and society. This enhanced partnership was discussed during a meeting on February 3, 2026, between Dr. Danang Sri Hadmoko, UGM’s Vice Rector for Research, Business Development, and Partnerships, and Koji Hachiya, President Director of Hitachi Asia Indonesia.
Long-standing Partnership
Dr. Hadmoko noted that the partnership between UGM and Hitachi has been in place since 1985. The recent discussions emphasized the need for research efforts to focus on generating substantive impacts. He indicated that collaborations between academic institutions and industry must lead to viable solutions for community challenges, ultimately contributing to global issues while nurturing young talent.
Strategic Collaborations
The long-standing partnership serves as a foundation for expanding strategic collaborations. Dr. Hadmoko expressed the intention to enhance efforts that can produce significant impacts through joint research, talent development, and student involvement in the industrial ecosystem.
Future Technology Development
Mr. Hachiya highlighted the potential for cooperation with UGM, particularly in the area of future technology development, with artificial intelligence (AI) being a key priority for Hitachi’s growth strategy. He pointed out that the alignment of skilled human resources with industry needs poses a significant challenge and identified educational partnerships as essential for addressing this issue.
UGM’s Research Landscape
Professor Mirwan Ushada, UGM’s Director of Research, provided an overview of the university’s research landscape, which supports potential collaborations with global industries. He stated that UGM is focusing on critical research areas such as food security, digital transformation, energy transition, climate change, and socio-cultural resilience. These initiatives are designed to meet real-world challenges through active collaboration with industry partners.
International Research Collaborations
Additionally, Professor Ushada elaborated on UGM’s extensive experience in establishing international research collaborations. Various cooperative efforts with industry partners and global institutions, particularly from Japan, have been successfully executed. This collaborative history is evident in UGM researchers’ contributions to international innovation awards supported by Hitachi, attesting to UGM’s status as a relevant research hub for the industry.
Expanding Cross-Disciplinary Collaborations
The meeting also highlighted opportunities for expanding cross-disciplinary collaborations within UGM. Potential partnerships could arise from joint research projects, international proposal development, and leveraging global networks. This synergy is expected to enhance research contributions to the sustainable development agenda, with UGM advocating for structured and long-term collaborations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Professor Ushada expressed optimism for a more focused and sustainable collaboration with Hitachi, reinforcing UGM’s position as a strategic industry partner in research and innovation.
Source: Triya Andriyani, UGM News
