Indonesian Parliament Skeptical Over Newly Formed 'Republic of Indonesia University'

Concerns have been raised by Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR), which oversees education, culture, tourism, and creative economy, regarding the newly established 'Republic of Indonesia University' (URI) announced by President Prabowo Subianto. Lalu Hadrian, the Vice Chairman of Commission X, stated on Thursday (24/7) that the commission has never discussed the formation of URI in any of its meetings or official agendas, and thus has no knowledge of its legal basis, functions, or budget. Lalu emphasized that the government should provide an explanation regarding the added value of URI compared to the many existing universities and state-run vocational schools in Indonesia. He also stressed the need to ensure that the new institution does not duplicate the roles of these existing campuses. "We believe the government must prove the added value of URI amidst the many public universities and state institutions that have already produced leaders, and guarantee that there is no duplication of roles," Lalu stated. The politician from the PKB party added that Commission X is awaiting official clarification from the government and plans to address the matter during a working meeting with the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology after the recess in August. This is to prevent the policy from causing further questions and controversy among the public. Meanwhile, acting Minister of State Secretary, Prasetyo Hadi, explained that URI is an institution prepared to cultivate future national leaders by adopting a model similar to leadership education institutions in several countries, such as France's École nationale d'administration (ENA), now the Institut National du Service Public (INSP). He expressed hope that through this model, future leaders in Indonesia would possess both technical capabilities and a strong sense of national insight, serving the nation's interests. Source: CNN Indonesia