The Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology has targeted engaging around 193 thousand students in the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) programs in 2024.
This initiative is designed to empower students to master diverse knowledge and skills applicable to the professional workforce.
Throughout 2023, over 134 thousand students from various universities participated in eight MBKM programs, including certified internships, domestic and international student exchanges, campus teaching, and entrepreneurship programs.
“In 2024, our goal is to involve approximately 193 thousand students,” announced Dr. Gugup Kismono, the Executive Chair of the Kampus Merdeka Center (PPKM), during the signing of a memorandum of understanding between UGM and Belmawa Dikti Ristek on Friday (Dec. 29) at UGM.
Moreover, Dr. Kismono stated they are set to collaborate with various partners, including renowned foreign universities for student exchange programs and numerous companies for certified internship activities.
“Next year, we aim to expand our networks and involve more renowned universities worldwide,” he explained.
Professor Sri Suning Kusumawardani, the Director of Learning and Student Affairs at the Directorate General of Higher Education, Research, and Technology (Belmawa Dikti Ristek), expressed her appreciation for PPKM’s successful implementation of the MBKM programs since 2020.
In addition to increasing student numbers and international exposure, they plan to engage numerous corporate partners, even garnering support from the president.
“There will be an MBKM Presidential Instruction to all ministries and state-owned enterprises to support this program, marking a significant leap provided by the state for this initiative,” she explained.
She emphasized that, through the MBKM, universities from various regions will participate, thereby enhancing their students’ access to student exchange activities with large and well-known universities.
“We want universities outside Java and distant areas to access better education through this initiative,” she said.
Professor Ova Emilia, the Rector of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), thanked the ministry for entrusting UGM to oversee the MBKM.
“For the past two years, we have been entrusted to implement programs for better education. We hope to accelerate the achievements of the MBKM,” she said.
Author: Gusti Grehenson
Photographer: Firsto