UGM continues to strengthen its commitment as an inclusive campus by expanding access to education for all segments of society, including those facing economic, social, and geographic vulnerabilities.
One of its ongoing efforts is a geography-based inclusion program, implemented by selecting new students via the Talent Scouting (PBU) admission pathway for top-performing students from the regions and through the tri-dharma affirmation track.
Dr. Hempri Suyatna, Secretary of the Directorate of Student Affairs, stated that the university supports students throughout their academic journey to ensure they can complete their education.
This support includes scholarship assistance and laptop loan programs designed to minimize obstacles in their studies.
“This includes the tuition fee scheme. Even before students officially enroll, the financing structure is designed to avoid burdening them,” said Dr. Suyatna in the May edition of the Pojok Bulaksumur discussion series, held on Monday (May 19) at the central foyer of UGM’s Central Office.
He explained that UGM only applies the Institutional Development Contribution (IPI) to students admitted through the independent pathway.
“Even then, a subsidy scheme can reduce the fee to zero rupiahs. This facilitation and accommodation remain our priorities,” he noted.
Since 2023, UGM has involved students in determining the amount of the Uang Kuliah Tunggal (UKT) or Single Tuition Fee for new students.
According to Dr. Suyatna, this initiative supports transparency in education financing.
“We encourage faculties to involve students. For example, members of Forkom (Communication Forum) and BEM (Student Executive Board) often assist in advocating for students who need financial support,” he explained.
UGM also provides laptop loans for students working on their final projects to further support student learning.
“Of course, the program includes a strict selection process and prioritization system to ensure it targets the right students. UGM is committed to ensuring that no student faces obstacles in completing their studies,” he emphasized.
Ayu, a student from the Social Development and Welfare program (PsDK) at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (Fisipol UGM), expressed her appreciation for the laptop loan program, which helped her complete her thesis.
“The program helped me finish my undergraduate thesis. It also motivated me to graduate sooner since I was given the support I needed,” she said.
She encouraged prospective students not to worry or feel discouraged, as many UGM programs are designed to help them succeed.
Beyond assisting students from low-income families, UGM also reaffirms its commitment to being an inclusive and disability-friendly campus.
This commitment is reflected in the admission of students with disabilities and the implementation of inclusive learning approaches.
The newly inaugurated Disability Services Unit (ULD UGM), launched at the end of last year, has provided services to students with disabilities even before they were officially admitted, including assistance during entrance exams. Currently, UGM has 48 students with disabilities.
Professor Wuri Handayani, Head of ULD UGM, explained the various efforts made by UGM to accommodate students with disabilities. Although the ULD office was only officially established late last year, services for students with disabilities had already been underway.
“Beyond facilities and accommodations, ULD also acts as a central access point for scholarships and flagship programs for students with disabilities,” Professor Handayani said.
Anis, a student with disabilities from the Faculty of Biology, admitted that she initially had difficulty adapting, especially during the transition from online to in-person learning. Fortunately, her faculty provided support and accommodations throughout her classroom and lab activities.
“The facilities provided by UGM have been very helpful for my learning, especially during practical sessions. My peers are also very supportive,” said Anis.
She acknowledged that this academic support has opened up more opportunities for her to engage in non-academic activities. Anis previously represented UGM as a Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Ambassador and even won an award.
According to her, the atmosphere and environment at UGM highly support learning for everyone, including students with disabilities.
Author: Tasya
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya
Photographer: Firsto