Prabowo aims for free education from primary school to state universities

Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised that the costs of state education, ranging from primary school (SD) to state universities, must be free and should not become a burden on the public.

During his speech at the 28th anniversary commemoration of the National Mandate Party (PAN) in Jakarta on Friday night, Prabowo stated that he would soon convene a limited meeting to discuss efforts to realise this tuition-free state education.

“I strongly agree; I will immediately hold a limited meeting (ratas) to ensure that the costs of state education must be free,” he said, as monitored online.

Prabables subsequently detailed the levels of state education that he believes should be made free of charge.

“The costs for state education—primary school, junior high, senior high, and state universities—must be free,” he asserted.

The Head of State also addressed the funding sources required to implement this free education policy.

According to Prabowo, one source of funding could come from the recovery of state funds that have been corrupted or stolen.

“Later, there will be those who ask, where will the money come from? It will come from the money that has been corrupted, stolen, or embezzled,” he remarked.

This statement expands upon the commitment previously expressed by Prabowo regarding free education in state schools.

In a speech concerning the 2027 State Budget Bill (RUU APBN) and the Financial Note on 14 August 2026, Prabowo stated that the government would fight to ensure that Indonesian children can attend state schools for free.

At that time, Prabowo emphasised that education is a right for all Indonesian children and that the government is obligated to expand access to education without fees.

In addition to expanding educational access, the government also intends to prioritise the revitalisation of educational units and the digitalisation of learning in 2027.