February 26, 2026 | 11:07 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Chief Executive of Indonesia’s Education Fund Management Agency (LPDP), Sudarto, is encouraging affluent families to opt for partial funding scholarships rather than full funding. Under this scheme, recipients cover half of their study costs, while LPDP finances the remainder.
"If you are capable, choose partial funding, not full funding. Let 50 percent come from LPDP and 50 percent from your own resources," Sudarto said during an interview at the Directorate General of Fiscal Balance in Jakarta on Wednesday night, February 25, 2026.
He explained that self-contribution from wealthy families allows LPDP to extend scholarships to more Indonesian talents.
The agency currently has a relatively small number of recipients compared to the nationwide demand for higher education, so it focuses on attracting Indonesia’s "top of the top" students to world-class universities.
At the same time, Sudarto emphasized LPDP’s commitment to inclusivity. Over the past three years, around 30 percent of scholarship recipients have come from affirmative action groups, including students from underdeveloped regions, underprivileged families, persons with disabilities, and high-achieving athletes.
For these groups, LPDP relaxes requirements on English proficiency, academic performance, and age. "We know many are qualified but lack the same opportunities as peers from cities or affluent families," Sudarto said.
LPDP is also expanding partnerships with top universities in non-English-speaking countries, including Germany, France, China, Japan, Korea, and Russia. Tuition in these countries is generally more affordable, allowing LPDP to support more recipients.
Spreading students across different countries also enhances language skills and strengthens Indonesia’s global diaspora network.
"In the end, we need individuals who can speak Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Russian, French, and German. These skills are vital for Indonesia’s global engagement," Sudarto added.
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