Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto emphasized the necessity of synergy between the Government and private universities to strengthen Indonesia’s higher education ecosystem during the 1st National Working Meeting of the Association of Indonesian Private Universities in Jakarta, according to official statements.
The meeting brought together around 500 participants from 34 provinces. During this forum, representatives from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology sought feedback from private college heads concerning better university management, enhanced workforce capabilities, and wider entry to tertiary education.
Expanding Access and Regional Scholarship Schemes
With regard to widening entry into tertiary education, Minister Brian reiterated that the administration keeps adjusting how the Smart Indonesia Card for Higher Education—recognized as KIP Kuliah—is put into practice, matching it to societal needs. He noted that local governments can provide scholarships to students attending private universities.
“Local governments are allowed to provide assistance to private universities in the form of scholarships. That is already permitted,” Minister Brian stated during the event. He added that such support could be developed through regional scholarship schemes, noting that the Ministry of Home Affairs has issued a circular allowing local governments to provide scholarships to private institution students.
Minister Brian asked that all recommendations from participants be submitted in writing through the Association of Indonesian Private Universities, known as APTISI, so officials can properly follow up on them. Technical recommendations raised by participants will be reviewed in accordance with applicable regulations and local needs.
Did You Know? The 1st National Working Meeting of the Association of Indonesian Private Universities drew approximately 500 participants representing 34 provinces to discuss higher education governance and access.
Strengthening Human Resources and Knowledge Transfer
Human resource development formed another core focus of the discussions in Jakarta. Minister Brian stressed the importance of academic experience and expertise in helping strengthen private universities across various regions.
To support this goal, he highlighted the opportunity to utilize the experience of lecturers, including those from public universities who are approaching retirement. These educators can support private institutions through targeted knowledge transfer.
Presidential Special Staff for Tourism Zita Anjani also spoke at the event. She stated that universities play an important role in maximizing Indonesia’s potential through science and education, adding that the nation’s natural and cultural wealth needs support from stronger human resources and knowledge.
APTISI Chairman Budi Djatmiko emphasized the broader societal mission of campuses. “A Golden Indonesia will not emerge from campuses that merely succeed at teaching; it will emerge from campuses capable of turning knowledge into empowerment,” Budi said.
Meanwhile, the Lampung provincial government stated that universities must prepare competent human resources capable of adapting to technological developments and workforce needs. The provincial government presented collaboration opportunities with universities spanning research, talent development, and science-based policymaking, aligning with the Diktisaintek Berdampak initiative.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main purpose of the APTISI national working meeting?
The event served as a platform for the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology to collect suggestions from private university directors directed at refining institutional administration, boosting human capabilities, and broadening tertiary school availability.
Can local governments provide scholarships to private university students?
Yes. According to Minister Brian, local governments are permitted to provide financial assistance and scholarships to students at private universities, supported by a circular issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
How are recommendations from the meeting being processed?
Minister Brian requested that participants submit their recommendations in writing through APTISI so the Ministry can review and process them in accordance with applicable regulations.
What specific steps should regional institutions take to maximize the new collaboration opportunities outlined by provincial governments?
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