RI Govt says no rise in university tuition fees

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia's Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto has affirmed that there is no rise in the single tuition fees of university students.

This assurance was made during a meeting with rectors of state universities and heads of higher education service institutions (LLDIKTI), which took place both online and in person on Thursday.

In a statement here on Friday, he encouraged rectors and the LLDIKTI heads to maintain clear communication with students, reassuring them that the single tuition fees would remain unchanged.

"There should be no miscommunication. It is essential to avoid triggering worry among students," he stressed.

The minister emphasized that his ministry would continue to fund the Smart Indonesia Card Program for University Students (KIP-K), which offers financial aid for education to its beneficiaries.

He underscored the importance of clarifying various issues to eliminate misunderstandings. Thus, students would gain clarity on the fact that scholarships will not be reduced and that the government remains committed to facilitating access to higher education.

Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology, rectors, and heads of LLDIKTI across Indonesia.

He invited all stakeholders to synergize and provide constructive suggestions for the advancement of higher education in Indonesia.

"Higher education does not only function as the center of knowledge but also as the main driver of national economic growth," he remarked.

In this regard, he encouraged academicians to be more proactive in supporting President Prabowo's grand vision of creating a highly competitive education ecosystem that has a real impact on society.

Thursday's meeting was also attended by Deputy Ministers of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Fauzan and Stella Christie.