Tuition Hike on Indonesian Campuses; Education Minister Clarifies Position
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21 May 2024 16:19 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Nadiem Anwar Makarim said universities’ single tuition fees (UKT) must always prioritize the principles of fairness and inclusivity. Nadiem said this in a working meeting with Commission X of the House of Representatives (DPR) on Tuesday, May 21, 2024.
Nadiem said fairness is reflected in tiered tuition. “Meaning, students from affluent families will pay more while underprivileged students pay less. This is what we apply for UKT all along because the principle of fairness must be upheld and honored," said Nadiem.
Previously, the Ministry of Education issued Regulation No. 2 of 2024 concerning Standard Operational Costs of Higher Education (SBOPT) at State Universities which became the basis for campuses to increase students’ tuition fees.
Nadiem clarified that this new regulation only applies to new students and does not affect the tuition fees of current students. Nadiem also claimed that this regulation only impacts students with a higher economic background.
The Ministry of Education and Culture, he said, will ensure that the increase in tuition rates on various campuses is rational so underprivileged students are not affected. The ministry will also evaluate unreasonable increases in student tuition rates, Nadiem said. He asked all campuses to be rational and precise in applying the regulation.
For students who cannot afford campus tuition fees, Nadiem directed them to KIP College scholarships. “We strive to increase the number of KIP-K and ensure those at the bottom of the ladder will receive the scholarship. We are fighting to increase the budget for KIP-K,” he said.
Previously, many students from various campuses staged protests against the tuition hike. Campuses across the country increased their tuition fees, including Unsoed, UGM, UI, Unri, and ITB. As a result, DPR summoned Nadiem Makarim for his explanation regarding the current situation.
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