Distance Learning for Students: Expert Warns of Potential Learning Loss

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Education observer Indra Charismiadji has warned of the potential for learning loss among students who will undergo distance learning (PJJ). This statement was made in response to the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology encouraging universities to prepare distance learning (PJJ) for students in semester 5 and above to support the government’s policy on energy efficiency. “If there is no improvement, prepare for learning loss again,” Indra said when contacted on Monday (6/4/2026). At that time, many students experienced learning loss due to the unpreparedness of all parties in implementing digital technology-based learning. “The biggest question is whether universities have learned from what happened during the pandemic? Or have universities returned to the traditional model? Without wanting to learn, without any desire to improve the digital technology-based learning process,” Indra said. Therefore, he urged the government to pay attention to three things before implementing the distance learning policy for students in semester 5 and above. “There are three things that need to be prepared: infrastructure, infostructure, infoculture. If all three are not prepared, do not expect a quality process,” Indra stressed. Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Mendikti Saintek) of Indonesia Brian Yuliarto stated that this is regulated in Circular Letter of Mendikti Saintek Number 2 of 2026 Concerning Adjustment of Work Patterns and Adjustment of Academic Activities addressed to State Universities (PTN) and Private Universities (PTS). “Of course, the circular we convey to the entire Dikti Saintek family certainly covers PTN and PTS. Although by law PTS are under foundations, but substantively under us,” Brian said when met at the Kemendikti Saintek Office on Monday (6/4/2026). “Why? Because during Covid-19 we learned that digitalisation is important and it makes us more efficient,” Brian said. In the circular, it is stated that the policy on adjustment of academic activities consists of four points. First, university leaders are urged to make adjustments to the implementation of academic activities based on the readiness and characteristics of the study programme. Then, the adjustment of academic activities as mentioned is carried out as part of efforts to achieve effectiveness and efficiency in the organisation of higher education, while still paying attention to learning outcomes and the academic calendar. Finally, distance learning is not applied to courses or academic activities that require practicum, laboratory, studio, clinic, workshop, field practice, or other forms of learning that must be carried out face-to-face.