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Palangka Raya – The Provincial Government of Central Kalimantan has officially launched a free higher education program for university students, a strategic move to expand access to tertiary education and raise the region’s Gross Enrollment Ratio (APK PT). The initiative reflects the spirit of Diktisaintek Berdampak, which calls on universities to deliver practical solutions for society.
At the launch of the 2026 Strategic Education Sector Program, Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Fauzan) praised the effort, describing it as a strong example of collaboration between local government and universities to broaden access and improve human capital.
Tackling Low Enrollment Rates
The program was designed to address low participation in higher education across Central Kalimantan. Data from Statistics Indonesia (BPS) shows the province’s APK PT is 25.49%, below the national average of 32.89%. Economic barriers remain the main challenge for high school graduates seeking university education. The free tuition scheme is expected to ease these constraints and accelerate improvements in workforce quality.
Governor Agustiar Sabran emphasized the government’s commitment to educational equity:
“Through the One House One Graduate program and free tuition for 10,000 students, we are working with universities to ensure Central Kalimantan’s youth receive quality education. This is a concrete step to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty.”
Expanding Medical Specialist Training
The event also marked the inauguration of an Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist Training Program (PPDS) at Palangka Raya University’s Faculty of Medicine. This initiative supports the national agenda led by President Prabowo Subianto to strengthen Indonesia’s health workforce, addressing shortages of around 70,000 specialist doctors and 140,000 general practitioners nationwide.
Central Kalimantan currently has 22 hospitals, but only 10 meet the standard for specialist availability. Twelve hospitals still lack sufficient medical experts, and seven hospitals have no Ob-Gyn specialists at all. By 2029, the province is projected to need at least 84 Ob-Gyn specialists to improve healthcare services and reduce maternal and child mortality.
Universities as Problem Solvers
Deputy Minister Fauzan stressed that universities must play a more active role in regional development:
“Universities must no longer be ivory towers removed from society. Campuses should act as problem solvers for local issues, from education and health to poverty alleviation.”
Toward Indonesia Emas 2045
Through collaboration between local government, universities, and healthcare facilities, the free education program and specialist training initiative are expected to accelerate the development of a skilled, healthy, and globally competitive workforce—supporting Indonesia’s vision of Indonesia Emas 2045.
Post: global-workforcemanagement.com
Post: global-workforcemanagement.com
