The increase in Single Tuition Fees (UKT) at several state universities (PTN) in 2024 triggered a wave of student demonstrations in various regions. The protests were motivated by concerns that access to higher education will become increasingly difficult for the underprivileged.
Some of the state universities that announced the increase in tuition fees include General Soedirman University (Unsoed), Riau State University (Unri), and North Sumatra University (USU). This increase has drawn rejection from students because it is considered a burden on the cost of education.
Students who are members of various student organizations took to the streets to voice their aspirations. They demanded transparency in the determination of UKT, asked for fee waivers for poor students, and urged the government to increase the education budget.
In response to the protests, several state universities, such as Unsoed, decided to cancel the UKT increase. President Joko Widodo also intervened by instructing the Minister of Education, Culture, Research and Technology (Mendikbudristek) to review the UKT policy in state universities.
The UKT increase at state universities has become a sensitive issue because it concerns access to education for the younger generation. For students from underprivileged families, the UKT increase can be a barrier to continuing their education to a higher level.
On the other hand, state universities also need funding to provide quality education. The increase in UKT is claimed to be one of the ways to improve the quality of education.
