The recent decision by the Indonesian government to cancel the planned increase in Uang Kuliah Tunggal (UKT) for the academic year 2024/2025 has been met with mixed reactions, particularly from the student community. Students from many parts of the country expressed strong opposition to the proposed raise in the UKT. Their main worries were related to the cost impact of the rise.
As a fortunate student who receives a KIP-K scholarship, I find myself caught in a complex dilemma in the center of the tuition fee increase policy. I am grateful that my financial situation have not changed. However, I have serious concerns about what will happen to incoming students as well as other less fortunate individuals that this policy will affect.
This policy is like a nightmare for prospective new students from underprivileged families. Their access to the gates of higher education is increasingly hindered, leading to anxiety and uncertainty about the future. Even more concerning, the tuition fee increase has the potential to widen the education gap. The elite with strong financial capabilities may not be affected, but for those from underprivileged families, this policy can become a stumbling block that snatches away dreams and hopes.
The news about the increase in UKT started spreading around early 2024. This issue caused protests from future students and current students in April and May. At Unnes, a protest was held on May 7th in front of the Rectorate Building.
The issue got worse when the Secretary of the Directorate General of Higher Education, Research, and Technology, Tjitjik Sri Tjahjandarie, said that higher education is optional and not part of the 12 years of mandatory education. Many people felt this statement hurt their feelings and discouraged young people from dreaming about going to college.
Seeing the growing wave of protests, the government decided to cancel the UKT increase. This cancellation was announced by the Minister of Education and Culture, Nadiem Makariem, after meeting with the President of Indonesia, Joko Widodo, at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Monday, May 27, 2024.
The cancellation of the UKT increase is a welcome relief, but it highlights the need for a more equitable approach to funding higher education in Indonesia. Policymakers must consider the broader implications of tuition hikes and strive to create a system that supports all students, regardless of their financial background. By ensuring equal access to education, we can help bridge the gap between different socioeconomic groups and foster a more inclusive society.
