Purbaya to Grant Rp100 Billion to the University of Indonesia via LPDP

Indonesia’s University of Indonesia (UI) is set to receive Rp100 billion (approximately $6.2 million USD) in funding through the Education Fund Management Institute (LPDP), as announced by Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa on Saturday, February 14, 2026. The announcement came during a graduation ceremony for UI undergraduate and vocational programmes held at the UI campus in Depok.

Boosting UI’s Global Standing

The financial commitment reflects a broader effort to elevate UI’s position in global university rankings. Currently ranked below 200, President Prabowo Subianto has reportedly requested that UI ascend to the top 100 institutions worldwide. This funding is intended to support initiatives aimed at achieving that goal.

A History of Support

Minister Purbaya highlighted a pre-existing relationship with UI, stemming from his time as Chairperson of the Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS). During that period, he oversaw the allocation of funds to support collaborative programmes between UI’s Faculty of Engineering and the University of California, Berkeley.

“We sent three UI students to Berkeley every year, and they received high appreciation there,” Purbaya stated, noting that this exchange program continued even after his departure from LPS.

Did You Know? The LPDP currently manages an endowment fund of Rp150 trillion (approximately $9.3 billion USD) specifically designated for educational programmes.

LPDP Funding and Future Expectations

Purbaya indicated that his transition to Finance Minister has, surprisingly, granted him greater access to financial resources. He stated he now “controls” the LPDP and its substantial endowment. The Rp100 billion allocation to UI represents a concrete application of these resources.

In a lighthearted remark, Purbaya expressed hope that the funding would preempt potential protests from the UI Student Executive Board (BEM), recalling a demonstration held on his first day as Finance Minister where students called for his resignation.

A Shift in Roles for Graduates

Addressing the graduating students, Purbaya acknowledged a change in their future responsibilities. He contrasted the relative simplicity of student activism – protesting and voicing dissent – with the complex task of shaping the nation’s economic future. He suggested that graduates should, in turn, encourage future students to prioritize study over protest.

Expert Insight: The Minister’s comments suggest a desire for a more collaborative relationship between the university and the government, potentially signaling a shift towards a more pragmatic approach to addressing national challenges.

UI Rector Heri Hermansyah confirmed that the current funding will support university-wide initiatives focused on internationalization and improving global rankings, expanding upon previous collaborations that initially focused on the Faculty of Engineering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the amount of funding being allocated to the University of Indonesia?

Rp100 billion (approximately $6.2 million USD) is being allocated to the University of Indonesia through the Education Fund Management Institute (LPDP).

Who announced the funding?

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa announced the funding during a graduation ceremony on February 14, 2026.

What is the stated goal of this funding?

The funding is intended to support initiatives aimed at improving the University of Indonesia’s global ranking, with a specific goal of reaching the top 100 institutions worldwide.

As the University of Indonesia embarks on this new phase of development, what role do you believe international collaboration will play in achieving its ambitious goals?