DPR Member Supports Distance Learning for University Students

The implementation of selective distance learning contributes to reducing mobility, which ultimately supports national energy savings. Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Chairman of Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Lalu Hadrian Irfani, supports the government’s policy in implementing a distance learning system (PJJ) for university students as part of the transformation of higher education in Indonesia. “The implementation of selective PJJ not only impacts campus operational efficiency but also contributes to reducing mobility, which ultimately supports national energy savings,” said Lalu Hadrian, quoted in Jakarta on Tuesday. This support aligns with the statement from the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Mendiktisaintek), Brian Yuliarto, who emphasised that PJJ is not applied comprehensively, particularly for first-year students. According to him, the implementation of PJJ is more focused on advanced-level students who are deemed ready for independent learning. He mentioned that this step is in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s government programme, which prioritises the optimisation of resource use amid global pressures, including the rise in world oil prices due to geopolitical conflicts. Nevertheless, he reminded that flexibility in the learning system must still be balanced with efforts to maintain the quality of academic interaction between lecturers and students. Furthermore, Lalu Hadrian emphasised that the technical implementation of the PJJ policy should be left to each higher education institution. According to him, campuses and lecturers have the authority and deeper understanding regarding the characteristics of courses, learning needs, and the readiness of available infrastructure. He also encouraged the government to continue ensuring the readiness of digital infrastructure, including equitable internet access and the availability of adequate learning platforms to support the successful implementation of PJJ across all regions of Indonesia.