Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology Confirms Closure of 122 Study Programmes in Various Universities, Provides Explanation

JAKARTA — The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Brian Yuliarto, has provided an explanation regarding the closure of several study programmes before the members of Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI).

Brian confirmed that throughout 2026, 122 study programmes have been closed. However, he noted that these closures were based on proposals submitted by the respective higher education institutions. “Throughout 2026, the closure of 122 study programmes has indeed taken place, but all such closures are based on proposals from the organising bodies of both public and private universities,” Brian stated in the Commission X Meeting Room, Jakarta, on Tuesday (2/6/2026). “We can convey that this is not our policy,” he asserted.

Brian added that these programmes are not being shut down in a traditional sense, but rather their teaching substance is being developed. He cited Electrical Engineering as an example, which is being expanded to include Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, or Robotics. According to Brian, some universities are renaming programmes to make them more attractive due to declining student numbers in certain fields. “For instance, mathematics previously became actuarial science, because actuarial graduates focus more on subjects that are currently in high demand by industry,” he explained.

He further clarified that the ministry’s policy remains based on two criteria: either through institutional proposals or as a sanction for serious violations. He reiterated that the government is not closing programmes but developing them to meet industrial needs. “It is not about closing study programmes, but rather developing and adjusting the substance being taught. This includes education programmes; all programmes follow this approach,” he added.

Badri Munir Sukoco, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology, stated that the ministry will identify the study programmes required for the future. This determination will be based on studies from the University Population Care Programme (PTPK). “There may be several matters we need to execute in the near future regarding which programmes we need to select, sort, and if necessary, close, in order to increase relevance,” said Badri Munir Sukoco during the 2026 National Population Symposium.