Yogyakarta, July 2nd 2025 – The Higher Education Service Institution (LLDIKTI) Region IV for West Java and Banten provided insights into the complexities and strategies of fostering 417 active higher education institutions within its jurisdiction. During a study visit by students of the Master of Higher Education Management (MMPT) program from Gadjah Mada University (UGM) on June 24th 2025, the Chief of LLDIKTI Region IV explained the institution’s strategic role as a technical implementing unit of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, while also outlining the challenges faced and innovations implemented.
LLDIKTI Region IV plays a central role in enhancing the quality and institutional assurance of Private Higher Education Institutions (PTS), managing human resources, and facilitating student activities. the institution faces various systemic issues, such as the diverse quality of PTS, limitations in human resources and infrastructure, and compliance with regulations. A primary concern is the disparity in lecturer quality due to the low number of lecturers with S3 qualifications and full professors, as well as unclear career paths in many PTS.
“The unhealthy financial condition of several PTS, primarily due to heavy reliance on UKT (Single Tuition Fee) as their sole source of income, also poses a challenge,” stated the Chief of LLDIKTI. To address this, LLDIKTI encourages managerial innovation to enable PTS to become more financially independent.
LLDIKTI Region IV supervises and facilitates good practices in higher education management. Universitas Pamulang (UNPAM) stands out as an exceptional example of management efficiency. “With very low UKT, UNPAM is able to provide high-quality facilities and educational services, covering shortfalls in lecturer salaries through contributions from business units and partners,” explained the Head of LLDIKTI. Another example is Jakarta International University (JIU), fully supported by CSR from South Korean industry, which employs a bilingual model and prepares graduates to compete in the global job market.
Nevertheless, the Head of LLDIKTI Region IV also highlighted the misuse of the KIP Aspirasi scheme, which undermines the integrity of higher education. Some PTS are suspected of recruiting students solely for scholarship funds without a commitment to providing adequate academic services. He emphasized the importance of strengthening verification and reporting of KIP Aspirasi data.
As part of its commitment to community service, LLDIKTI initiated the GRADASI 4 Program, involving students in various community-based social programs such as poverty literacy and stunting prevention. “This initiative not only expands the impact of the Tridharma but also serves as a means to strengthen students’ soft skills and leadership,” elaborated the Chief of LLDIKTI.
This study visit clarifies the urgency of the MMPT program in preparing competent and reform-minded higher education managers. LLDIKTI Region IV positively welcomes this collaboration, even opening its doors for MMPT students to conduct research within its environment.
Author: Berlian Belasuni
Photo: Doc. MMPT SPs UGM Study Program