Jakarta, ThedailyID — President Prabowo Subianto called several ministers to the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Wednesday, September 23, to discuss a plan for free education from elementary school through public universities.
The meeting was attended by Finance Minister Suahasil Nazara, Higher Education Minister Brian Yuliarto, Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar, and Elementary and Secondary Education Minister Abdul Mu’ti.
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian and Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf also attended the meeting.
Brian said the government is reviewing free education as part of efforts to increase investment in education. The meeting focused on calculations, possible schemes, and implementation stages.
“We are working on the calculations. That is why we are meeting today to discuss the schemes, stages, and other matters,” Brian said.
The government is also considering several options for free education at public universities.
One option would provide free access to all students. Another would introduce the policy gradually, starting with new students.
The government is also considering eligibility based on household economic groups, including certain decile categories.
“There are several calculations. It could cover all students at public universities, perhaps start with new students, or start with the fourth decile,” Brian said.
However, Brian did not provide a specific timeline for implementation. He said the government would first complete its discussions.
“As soon as possible. We need to hold the meeting first,” he said.
The free education proposal emerged after Prabowo announced plans to discuss the issue with his ministers.
During the 28th anniversary celebration of the National Mandate Party (PAN) at the Jakarta International Convention Center on Friday, September 18, Prabowo said he planned to hold a limited meeting on free education costs across public education levels.
“I will hold a limited meeting, or basically discuss free education costs,” Prabowo said.
The latest meeting therefore focused on developing the possible framework for the policy. The government has yet to announce the final scheme or implementation date.
