South Sumatra Governor Calls for Sjakhyakirti Conflict Resolution Without Jeopardising Students' Education

South Sumatra Governor Herman Deru has called for the internal conflict at Sjakhyakirti University to be resolved responsibly without compromising students’ academic activities. The request follows disputes between the university’s foundation and administration that led to the relevant ministry revoking the Law Faculty’s operational permit. “I have communicated with L2 Dikti regarding the issues at Sjakhyakirti University. I am an alumnus and the alumni association chair. If there are problems, resolve them internally,” Deru said in Palembang on Thursday. He stated that management issues and dominance within the foundation can still be resolved through consultation without interfering with students’ academic rights. Therefore, all parties in disagreement must set aside group egos to maintain the continuity of education at South Sumatra’s oldest university. “My advice to both sides is not to sacrifice the students. Sjakhyakirti University must remain operational,” he added. “First condition: do not sacrifice the students. Second, come to the provincial government to find a resolution together,” he said. Previously, active students at Sjakhyakirti University held a protest on Saturday (23 May) demanding academic compensation and certainty over their studies following the revocation of the Law Faculty’s permit. During the protest, students requested semester fee waivers, reimbursement for cancelled academic activities, and transfers to other universities without additional costs. “Students must not be victims of internal foundation and campus conflicts. We just want our education to continue uninterrupted until completion,” said student representative Khaliq. In response, the rectorate led by Rector Maulan Irwadi held a meeting with students and agreed on temporary resolution steps. The university also pledged to issue official academic transcripts, continue second-semester classes until the issuance of Academic Results Card (KHS), and refund the Fieldwork Placement (PKL) fees for sixth-semester students whose placements were cancelled. Students stated they would pursue legal action if the university fails to implement all written agreement points.