ROSI : Kacaunya Dunia Kampus, Dari Pinjol Sampai Obral Gelar

Summary

In this conversation, Professor Satrio Brojonegoro discusses the challenges of high university tuition fees (UKT) and the commercialization of education in Indonesia. He expresses concern over students burdened by expensive fees and advocates for a more equitable system, where wealthier students subsidize those who are less fortunate. The discussion also touches on the inflation of academic titles, like PhDs and Professorships, which are sometimes acquired through financial means. Professor Satrio emphasizes the importance of preserving academic integrity, rejecting titles as status symbols, and promoting merit over money in higher education.

Takeaways

• 😀 High tuition fees (UKT) are a significant burden on students, with some universities failing to adhere to government regulations on affordability.
• 😀 Universities should provide financial aid, such as scholarships, to support students from lower-income families rather than relying on loans or online borrowing platforms.
• 😀 The government has the ability to assist students in need by increasing education funding and offering scholarships directly to institutions.
• 😀 There is a growing issue where universities are not adhering to the government's tiered UKT structure, which aims to make education more affordable based on students' financial backgrounds.
• 😀 Some universities are overcharging students by setting UKT rates at the highest tiers, which exacerbates the financial pressure on students.
• 😀 The commercialization of education is a concern, with high tuition fees making education seem like a business rather than a public service.
• 😀 The rise of easy-to-attain doctoral degrees, often purchased with money, undermines the credibility and value of academic titles.
• 😀 The public’s perception of academic titles is shifting, with some questioning whether titles like 'Doctor' are truly earned or simply bought.
• 😀 Professor Satrio emphasizes that academic institutions should focus on merit-based achievements rather than the commercialization of degrees to preserve their dignity and prestige.
• 😀 The speaker stresses that universities must return to their core function as intellectual hubs, fostering genuine academic growth and inquiry rather than focusing on profit.

Q & A

What is the concern raised about the high cost of university tuition fees (UKT)?

The concern is that university tuition fees (UKT) are too expensive for many students, making it difficult for them to afford education. The fees seem to be set without considering the financial capabilities of Indonesian families, with some universities opting for the highest fee categories, leading to the commercialization of education.

What is the proposed solution to make tuition fees more affordable for students?

The proposed solution is to implement a 'cross-subsidy' system, where wealthier students pay higher fees to subsidize those who are financially less capable. The government has regulations in place for this, and universities should follow the tiered system to ensure fairness.

Why do some universities set higher tuition fees than the government guidelines recommend?

Some universities set higher tuition fees because they face operational budget shortages. They often opt for the highest fee tier to cover these financial gaps, despite government regulations that aim to make tuition fees more affordable.

What is the issue with universities recommending students use online loans (pinjol) to pay for tuition fees?

The use of online loans (pinjol) is considered inappropriate, as students should not have to resort to borrowing money in this way to pay for their education. Instead, universities should offer scholarships and financial aid to support students in need.

What is the alternative to using online loans for students who cannot afford tuition fees?

The alternative is to apply for scholarships or financial assistance from their respective universities. Universities should also request additional support from the government to help fund scholarships for students facing financial difficulties.

What is the government's stance on university tuition fees and how should they be adjusted?

The government believes that tuition fees should be affordable and based on the financial conditions of local communities. If universities cannot prove that their tuition fees are appropriate for their local populations, adjustments should be made to ensure fairness.

How does the government plan to help students who are unable to afford university education?

The government has stated that it can help students financially if they are genuinely unable to afford tuition fees. However, students must go through a formal process to apply for assistance, and the government will provide support based on their financial needs.

What did Minister Prabowo emphasize about funding for universities?

Minister Prabowo emphasized that universities funded by public money (APBN) should not charge high tuition fees. He called for a thorough calculation to minimize fees or make them as low as possible, ensuring that education is accessible to all students.

What is the proposed approach to granting scholarships to students in need?

The approach involves universities requesting scholarships for students in need, and if necessary, submitting requests for additional funding to the government. The government is willing to provide financial aid, but the process must be followed to ensure proper allocation.

What concerns were raised about the commercialization of universities and the awarding of doctorates?

There are concerns that some universities are prioritizing business interests over academic integrity, leading to the sale of doctoral degrees. The growing trend of awarding degrees to those who can afford them, rather than based on merit, undermines the prestige and value of academic titles.