Minister of Higher Education States PTN and PTS to Rename 122 Study Programmes Throughout 2026
The Minister of Higher Education, Brian, stated during a working meeting with Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) in Senayan, Jakarta, on Tuesday (2/6/2026), that recent programme closures are actually related to name changes.
“We need to convey on the following page that throughout 2026, the closure of 122 study programmes has indeed taken place, but all these closures are based on proposals from the organising bodies, both for State Universities (PTN) and Private Universities (PTS),” Brian said during the meeting.
He cited several study programmes that have changed names, such as mathematics transitioning to actuarial science. Brian also clarified rumours suggesting that the Ministry of Higher Education intends to unilaterally close study programmes, noting that such an action does not fall under his authority.
“Some changes occur because student numbers have decreased, or they wish to change to more attractive study programmes. For example, mathematics became actuarial science because actuarial graduates focus more on subjects that are currently in high demand by industry,” he explained.
Addressing the growing issue that the Ministry of Higher Education would close study programmes to adjust to future industrial developments, he added, “We can state that this is not our policy.”
He noted that study programmes are not being closed, but rather undergo development or enhancement. Brian stated that this is part of the evaluation process conducted by PTNs and PTSs every three to four years.
“What exists is a programme for the guidance and development of study programmes. This is because, in reality, study programmes are not being closed, but rather the substance is being updated. For instance, what was previously an electrical engineering department has now evolved into AI, machine learning, or robotics,” he said.
The Minister emphasised that policies regarding the change or closure of study programmes refer to proposals from PTNs or PTSs. He noted that closures could only occur as a sanction for serious violations.
“Our policy remains based on two provisions: either based on proposals or based on sanctions for serious violations. Once again, we state that instead of closing, we are developing study programmes to ensure they are matched with future industrial needs,” he concluded.