Ismail Hasani, advisor to the Indonesian Ministry of Higher Education and Technology, cautioned against the rush to transform universities into institutions with Special Legal Status (PTNBH) without the necessary human resources. This warning was made during his speech at the inauguration of the Hasanuddin University president, where he stressed the importance of complete readiness before taking this step.
Hasani explained that the transition to PTNBH is a dream pursued by many universities, but he pointed out that this transformation requires transformational leadership and support from the academic council, faculty, and students. He affirmed that success in achieving the desired goals necessitates good coordination among all parties involved.
Event Details
In his address, Hasani noted that universities seeking to obtain PTNBH status must be prepared in terms of organization and resources. He emphasized that university automation may seem appealing, but if there is no capacity to manage resources effectively, this transition may not yield the desired results.
He also added that there are other types of educational institutions, such as public service institutions, that can achieve similar goals without needing to transition to PTNBH. He confirmed that the transformation must be well-considered and based on solid foundations.
Background & Context
Many Indonesian universities are striving to improve their legal status by transitioning to PTNBH, which grants them greater autonomy in managing their affairs. However, this transition requires significant investments in developing human resources and infrastructure.
Historically, Indonesia has witnessed substantial changes in its higher education system, with numerous reforms introduced to enhance the quality of education. Nevertheless, significant challenges remain for universities in achieving these goals.
Impact & Consequences
The shift to PTNBH can significantly affect the quality of education and research in Indonesian universities. If this transition is implemented hastily, it may exacerbate existing problems within the educational system.
It is crucial to assess the available capabilities and resources before making the decision to transition, as failure to do so could lead to adverse outcomes that impact the reputation of universities and their ability to attract students.
Regional Significance
Indonesia's experience in transitioning to PTNBH may hold importance for Arab countries seeking to improve their higher education systems. Arab universities can benefit from the lessons learned from this experience, particularly regarding the importance of good planning and resource provision.
Ultimately, Arab universities should be cautious in taking similar steps and ensure they have the capacity to manage changes effectively before embarking on any major transformation.