The Importance of Data-Driven Decision-Making for Vocational Graduates: A Minister's Perspective
In a recent address at the 2024/2025 graduation ceremony of the State Finance Polytechnic of the State College of Accountancy (PKN STAN), Deputy Minister Stella Christie highlighted the critical role of data-driven decision-making, research, and scientific skills for graduates of vocational and professional higher education institutions.
Christie emphasized that while cost calculations are essential, the benefits of research and science far outweigh our initial perceptions. She cited a study showing that a 10% increase in research investment can lead to a significant 0.9% boost in long-term economic growth.
The key to impactful decision-making, according to Christie, lies in balancing cost-benefit analyses in public policy. She provided compelling examples of the economic impact of research in various countries.
Stanford University, for instance, generates an annual economic benefit of IDR 44 quadrillion (USD 2.7 trillion). In China, innovation and technology clusters contribute 13.4% of the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) while utilizing only 2.5% of total construction land.
Christie pointed out the stark contrast between middle-income and high-income countries, attributing it to their differing investments in research and mastery of science and technology.
The United States, for example, allocates USD 102 billion annually to research, while Indonesia's research budget stands at around USD 200 million, despite a 218% increase under President Prabowo Subianto's administration.
Christie urged the nation to recognize the long-term benefits of research and investments in Human Resources (HR).
Minister of Finance Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa echoed these sentiments, expressing the Ministry of Finance's commitment to supporting higher education in finance to produce professionals capable of formulating impactful, people-oriented national policies.
The 2025 PKN STAN graduation ceremony witnessed the participation of 991 graduates with Bachelor's and Diploma III degrees, marking a significant milestone in their academic journey.
