JAKARTA - Chairman of Commission X of the House of Representatives, Hetifah Sjaifudian, criticized the evaluation plan to close the study program (prodi) by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemendiktisaintek). He emphasized the importance of caution, transparency, and a strong academic study basis related to the plan.
According to Hetifah, increasing the relevance of higher education to industry needs is indeed important. However, universities should not be reduced to merely being a supplier of labor.
"Every policy related to the program must be based on a comprehensive study, not just responding to short-term trends. The function of universities is much broader, including the development of basic science, culture, and the critical power of the nation," Hetifah told reporters, Monday, April 27.
The head of the commission, which deals with education, emphasized that a more appropriate approach is transformation, not mass closure. According to him, the faculties that are considered less relevant need to be revitalized through curriculum strengthening.
"It needs to be revitalized through an interdisciplinary approach, as well as the connection with the potential of the region and the richness of local culture," said Hetifah.
Hetifah also reminded that excessive orientation on efficiency risked narrowing the scientific ecosystem and weakening the strategic role of universities as centers of civilization.
Therefore, the Golkar legislator from the East Kalimantan District encouraged that the evaluation of the program be carried out periodically, transparently, and involve various stakeholders, including academics, industry, and professional associations.
"If adjustments must be made, then it must be accompanied by a fair transition period, as well as full protection for students and lecturers," said Hetifah.
As a government working partner, Hetifah ensures that Commission X of the DPR RI will monitor this policy so that it can be measured, fair, and truly strengthen the nation's competitiveness.
"Of course without sacrificing the future of science," he concluded.
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