University of Indonesia Students Protest Tuition Fee Hikes

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - University of Indonesia (UI) students are opposing the reintroduction of Institute Development Contribution (IPI) fees and the increase in the Single Tuition Fee (UKT) for new students. They are demanding the cancellation of these policies.

"Considering the Rector's policy last year, which notably eliminated the IPI, the decision to reintroduce it this year is a significant shock for prospective new students," said Adi, the Chair of the UI Student Executive Board (BEM), in an interview with Tempo on Thursday, June 19, 2025.

The reintroduction of the IPI, effectively a registration fee for new students in the 2025/2026 academic year, is formalized in Rector's Decree Number 68/SK/R/UI/2025. This decree sets the minimum registration fee at zero rupiah, while capping the maximum at Rp120 million.

The implementation of the IPI was initially slated for the previous academic year. However, due to widespread student objections, the university ultimately scrapped that plan. "The last time IPI was determined was in 2023, and it was evident there was a substantial increase even then," Adi remarked.

Regarding the UKT, Adi highlighted that several study programs are facing an increase of 20 to 30 percent. Although the Rector mentioned that the determination of these fixed costs will be adjusted to individual economic conditions, students remain concerned about potential loopholes that could lead to financial burdens

"The decision-making process for those who want to enter UI needs to be reconsidered, with the understanding that they may withdraw even before re-registration," Adi cautioned.

On Tuesday, June 17, 2025, a group of students staged a protest camp in front of the rectorate building. Their demonstration lasted no more than five hours before campus security personnel forcibly disbanded it.

When contacted separately, University of Indonesia Rector Heri Hermansyah said that the protesting students had not submitted any formal complaints to him. He also asserted his readiness for dialogue. "The UI Rector is open and can be accessed by all UI citizens," he said via messaging application on Wednesday, June 18, 2025.

On an earlier occasion, Heri explained that the policy aims to improve university services and facilities. He pointed out that the government provides only 20 percent of UI's annual budget. "Meanwhile, from UKT and IPI, it fulfills the budget needs by 40 percent," he told Tempo on Saturday, May 10, 2025.

Nevertheless, Heri maintained that UI would ensure that tuition and registration fees are aligned with each student's economic capability. "Those who are unable will certainly pay zero rupiah for IPI, both for the national and independent selection paths. UKT can be up to Rp500,000," he assured. Heri also guaranteed that no student admitted to UI would be hindered solely by financial constraints.

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