Synergy of higher education collaboration with local governments in efforts to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a serious impact on various aspects of Indonesia, especially the economy. The government has made countermeasures by issuing various policies and social programs. However, the implementation of policies is not necessarily followed by the attitude of the people who are not disciplined and indifferent. The role of higher education is very much needed to provide guidance with a humanist approach. Therefore, it is necessary to have a synergy of good cooperation between local governments and universities in facing obstacles in overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic. The research aims to analyze how the synergy between the government and universities is in overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic cases in the community. The research was conducted with a qualitative approach. The data were obtained through literature review and interviews with the Provincial Government of Lampung and the University of Lampung. The results of the study show that the synergy between the government and universities is good. This is shown by interaction and mutual support. Where the government acts as a policy maker and facilitator, while universities act as a support for implementation through community service programs.