Ministry urges NTT campuses to adopt flexible learning after earthquake

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek) is encouraging universities in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) to implement academic flexibility for students directly or indirectly affected by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck on Saturday (15/8).

“In a disaster situation like this, the first thing we must ensure is the safety of the academic community. After that, we work together to ensure the education process can continue with the necessary adjustments,” said Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology Brian Yuliarto in Jakarta on Tuesday.

The minister urged universities to adopt distance learning or alternative teaching methods where network conditions and infrastructure allow, adjust schedules, and postpone academic activities that require students to be in locations that are not yet safe.

Minister Brian stressed that the safety of students and teaching staff must be the primary consideration before face-to-face learning resumes in areas whose facilities have not been declared safe.

“Kemdiktisaintek will continue to coordinate with universities and relevant stakeholders to ensure the safety of the academic community, support universities’ response to affected communities, and maintain the continuity of higher education during the post-earthquake recovery process in NTT,” said Minister Brian Yuliarto.

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Cultural Affairs Pratikno said the presence of ministers and agency heads in NTT since the first day of the incident reflects the government’s concern and commitment to supporting affected communities.

“Since the first day of the incident we have been in NTT to inspect the field and discuss accelerating recovery,” said Coordinating Minister Pratikno.