Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Satryo Soemantri Brodjonegoro, clarified that the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM, literally Freedom to Learn Independent Campus/MBKM) program is not mandatory for students or universities.

“The flexibility is given to universities, students, and lecturers to design their own education pathways. If MBKM doesn’t suit their needs, it’s not required,” Minister Satryo said on Friday (22/11/2024).

While the MBKM program offers significant opportunities for broader learning, Minister Satryo stressed its voluntary nature. 

"Merdeka means freedom. Freedom to choose, or even freedom not to choose. It’s okay not to participate," he noted, as reported by antaranews.com

Acknowledging that not all universities have the resources or alignment to implement MBKM, Minister Satryo encouraged institutions to adopt the program only if it adds value to their academic offerings. He also advised lecturers to guide students in making informed choices.

“The freedom to choose is yours. Choose what’s best for you. If staying within your campus works best, that’s fine too,” he said.

MBKM is the flagship initiative introduced by the Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Ministry in 2020 aimed to allow university students to earn academic credits outside traditional classroom settings through activities like internships, student exchange

(mg/inp/pr/nm)