Governor of Bali Wayan Koster, along with rectors of eight public universities and 20 private universities in Bali, inked an agreement to admit 1,450 students from underprivileged families this year.
“This year, we have 1,450 slots available. Hopefully, all will be filled by students from low-income rural families. I ask the rectors to carefully verify that these candidates are truly in need and that no one in their family has previously earned a degree,” Governor Koster remarked.
The program will be made possible owing to each participating university's willingness to accept 50 to 100 students free of charge, starting August 2025 until they complete their studies.
“This is a great model of collaboration. The regional government and all public and private universities are working together for Bali. It is time to give back to Bali. This will not affect campus revenues,” he emphasized.
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The governor underscored that supporting students from low-income families not only elevates the universities’ reputation but also brings blessings and goodwill.
Ultimately, he said, the program will help develop a generation of high-quality human resources in Bali who can contribute to the island's development.
According to the Bali Provincial Government, the gross enrollment ratio for higher education among Balinese youth stands at 38 percent in 2024.
“This figure is still relatively low. Through this program, we aim to raise the percentage to 50 percent,” Koster stressed.
He affirmed that by equipping students with higher education, Bali will produce a more competitive and qualified workforce, both nationally and globally.
“Most importantly, we must build competence through educational institutions while also nurturing strong character, integrity, and identity. Balinese people should grow through their own natural values,” the governor, who is an alumnus of the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), stated.
Following the success of this initial collaboration, the Bali government plans to meet with the minister of higher education, science, and technology to request increased quotas for the next academic year.
Governor Koster also urged the rectors of the 28 universities to ensure the program reaches the intended recipients and is not exploited by individuals who do not qualify.
He expressed hope that this collaboration could expand into other areas, such as research and student community service programs, which could help the provincial government identify and support underprivileged regions or populations more directly.
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Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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