Strategy to Enhance Key Performance Indicators (IKU) at Universitas Pembangunan Nasional "Veteran" Yogyakarta: A Qualitative Descriptive Analysis

Abstract

This study aims to comprehensively analyze the research management and development strategy at Universitas Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran” Yogyakarta (UPNYK) to support the achievement of the university’s Key Performance Indicators (IKU); assess the effectiveness of internal research grant schemes in improving research outputs; map the alignment of flagship research areas with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Bela Negara values; and formulate strategic recommendations to strengthen IKU achievement. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed through document analysis. Data were collected from the 2025–2029 Research Strategic Plan, 2026 Research Guidelines, internal research grant documents, and research output records. The findings indicate that LPPM UPNYK implemented 10 internal research grant schemes, strategically aligned with IKU related to faculty recognition, collaboration downstreaming, international publications, SDGs contribution, and industrial engagement. The schemes stimulated diverse research outputs, including publications in Scopus-indexed journals, collaborative research outputs, intellectual property, and research activities contributing to the SDGs. The integration of Food, Energy, and Environment as flagship research areas with Bela Negara values further strengthened the relevance and strategic positioning of institutional research. The study implies that research governance should be further strengthened through research group-based management, systematic support for publication in reputable international journals, intellectual property commercialization, stronger research-industry collaboration, and integrated research information systems. These strategies are expected to enhance research quality, institutional research productivity, and the sustainable achievement of UPNYK’s IKU.