DIY's University Participation Rate Rises, Yet Economic Gap Persists

The university participation rate in the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY) has increased to 46 per cent. However, this achievement is overshadowed by economic concerns, as approximately 30.9 per cent of students pursuing higher education are in a condition vulnerable to poverty.

The Chairman of Commission D of the DIY Regional House of Representatives (DPRD DIY), RB Dwi Wahyu Budiantoro, is urging that budget support through the Special Autonomy Fund (Danais) be directed more tangibly towards expanding access to education, including through scholarship programmes for DIY residents. “This is my concern. So, a sharp 46 per cent increase, but overshadowed by 30 per cent being vulnerable to poverty. This needs attention,” Dwi said during an education discussion forum in Yogyakarta on Wednesday (12/8/2026).

According to Dwi, the Danais has not yet touched the education sector evenly. Therefore, he hopes the Danais can be utilised to strengthen educational access for DIY residents while supporting the welfare of teaching staff. “I hope the special autonomy fund once again supports the existence of education, right down to discussing teacher welfare. We are still short of around 1,600 senior high school teachers today,” he said.

Dwi assessed that the issue of access to higher education is not solely related to the public’s desire to attend university, but also to the economic capacity of families. He emphasised the need for more complete data regarding DIY residents who continue to university, as well as senior high school graduates who have not been able to pursue higher education. “With that data, scholarship policies and budget interventions can be more accurately targeted. Even though the budget condition is limited, the education sector is still expected to be able to present solutions,” he said.