Hasanuddin University’s Commitment to Supporting Underprivileged Students through Scholarship Programs

Hasanuddin University (Unhas) has long demonstrated a strong commitment to expanding access to higher education for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Through a wide range of comprehensive scholarship and financial aid programs, Unhas ensures that financial challenges do not become a barrier for young people in achieving their academic aspirations. In 2024 alone, a total of 9,761 Unhas students received scholarships from various sources, including ministries, private institutions, and internal university initiatives.

This commitment is further reflected in the launch of a full scholarship program designed to cover the educational expenses of underprivileged students until they complete their studies. The program not only provides financial assistance but also offers work opportunities for students in need. The Rector of Unhas, Prof. JJ, emphasized that thousands of scholarship slots are available for students from low-income families, allowing them to pursue higher education free of charge. This initiative reinforces Unhas’s mission to make higher education more inclusive and accessible to all segments of society.

To ensure that assistance reaches those who truly need it, Unhas has established a special admission pathway known as the Sports, Arts, and Science Development Admission Track (POSK). Applicants from underprivileged families who apply through this pathway are required to submit eligibility documents such as a Family Welfare Card (KKS) or Indonesia Smart Card for College Students (KIP-Kuliah). In 2024, Unhas admitted 70 students through the POSK admission track, all of whom are encouraged to actively participate in extracurricular activities aligned with their talents and interests.

In addition to externally funded scholarships, Unhas also mobilizes its internal resources to support students through the university’s Endowment Fund. This fund regularly provides educational assistance to students in need. For instance, during the 2024 National Education Day (Hardiknas) celebration, 86 students received financial aid from the Endowment Fund. In the same year, Unhas also welcomed 1,845 new students as recipients of the KIP-K Scholarship, a vital government program that supports access to higher education for students from low-income families.

Amid growing concerns about the increasing cost of higher education in Indonesia, the Rector of Unhas took a firm stance by declaring that there would be no increase in the Single Tuition Fee (UKT). This policy reflects the university’s deep concern for the financial burdens faced by students and their families, ensuring that higher education remains affordable and within reach.

Unhas’s efforts do not stop there. The university continues to expand its network of partnerships with social organizations and charitable foundations to maximize support for students. One notable collaboration is with the Amal Bakti Das’ad Latif Foundation, which provides additional scholarship opportunities. Furthermore, partnerships with third-party scholarship providers such as the BSI (Bank Syariah Indonesia) Scholarship have opened wider access for high-achieving students from underprivileged families to receive educational funding. Most recently, in 2024, Unhas collaborated with PT Indonesia Morowali Industrial Park (IMIP) to provide scholarships to 27 students from engineering and Mandarin language programs.

To maintain transparency and ease of access, all scholarship-related announcements, including the list of Endowment Fund recipients, are published on the official student affairs portal. As of 2024, Unhas offers 32 types of scholarship collaborations with ministries, local governments, companies, and charitable foundations.

Overall, the diverse scholarship and financial aid programs implemented by Unhas throughout 2024 have had a significant impact on improving access to higher education. These initiatives not only align with the first Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 1) No Poverty but also serve as a strategic investment in human capital. Through the synergy of government, university, and social foundation support, thousands of underprivileged students now have a fairer opportunity to pursue a brighter future through quality education.

Admission Targets and Support for Students from the Bottom 20% Income Group at Hasanuddin University

Hasanuddin University (Unhas) has consistently demonstrated its commitment to inclusive higher education by expanding opportunities for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, particularly those belonging to the bottom 20% of household income groups. This commitment is realized through strategic policies, scholarship programs, and tuition schemes designed to ensure that financial limitations do not hinder students from pursuing quality education.

Unhas’s dedication to accessibility is reflected in its wide-ranging scholarship initiatives and pro-student tuition policies. Through its official programs, Unhas provides financial assistance to thousands of underprivileged students each year. Unhas highlights how substantial resources are allocated to support students in completing their studies without financial hardship. The university also implements the UKT 1 policy, which grants zero Rupiah tuition fees (0 Rupiah) for students classified as economically underprivileged. This policy, featured in Unhas’s official communications, underscores the university’s strong commitment to affordability and equal opportunity in higher education.

To enhance transparency and accessibility, Unhas provides comprehensive scholarship information through its official student portal. The platform details various financial aid opportunities, including government-funded programs, private sector scholarships, and grants from social foundations, all aimed at ensuring that no student is left behind due to economic barriers.

In addition to general scholarships, Unhas offers specialized financial aid programs such as the LPS Main Scholarship 2024, which supports academically outstanding students who face financial challenges. The university also partners with industry to expand scholarship opportunities and career pathways. A notable example is the collaboration in 2024 with PT Indonesia Morowali Industrial Park (IMIP), which provides the IMIP Cares Scholarship, combining financial support with a professional development and employment pathway for selected students.

In 2024, Unhas allocated scholarships for approximately 3,750 students, prioritizing those from low-income households. This initiative reflects the university’s target to ensure that at least 25% of its student population receives financial assistance, particularly those under the UKT 1 category — students verified to have minimal or zero household income. Through this effort, Unhas guarantees that students from the bottom income quintile have the opportunity to pursue their studies without financial pressure.

Furthermore, Unhas continues to broaden access to quality education through competitive programs such as the BSI Scholarship 2024, which promotes excellence and equity by supporting talented students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. These initiatives collectively reflect Unhas’s broader mission to bridge the educational gap and empower students from all walks of life.

By maintaining proactive tuition policies, developing diverse scholarship schemes, and setting clear admission targets for students from the lowest income groups, Unhas plays a vital role in advancing Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 1: No Poverty. These efforts not only help reduce educational inequality but also serve as a long-term investment in human capital. Through these inclusive initiatives, Unhas continues to empower thousands of underprivileged students to achieve their aspirations and contribute meaningfully to national and global development.

Ensuring the Graduation of Students from Low-Income Families: UNHAS’s Commitment to Inclusive and Equitable Education

Higher education is one of the most effective means to break the cycle of poverty. However, for many students from households in the bottom 20% income group, financial challenges often become a major barrier to completing their studies. Recognizing this reality, Universitas Hasanuddin (UNHAS) continues to demonstrate its strong commitment to ensuring that no student is forced to discontinue their education due to economic hardship.

1. No Student Should Drop Out Because of Financial Barriers

This firm commitment was explicitly stated by the Rector of UNHAS in an interview published by Identitas Unhas. The Rector emphasized that no student should have to drop out of university simply because they are unable to pay tuition fees (UKT). This statement reflects the university’s genuine concern for the academic continuity of students from low-income families.

UNHAS ensures that various mechanisms for financial aid, tuition adjustments, and flexible payment schemes are available to help students continue their studies without being burdened by financial difficulties. This initiative reinforces the university’s principle that access to education should not be limited by one’s economic background.

2. Scholarships and Financial Assistance for Underprivileged Students

As part of its efforts to support the academic success of students from low-income households, UNHAS actively distributes a range of scholarships and financial aid programs. Through the official video release “Unhas Provides Scholarships for Underprivileged Students,” the university showcased its commitment to providing financial assistance to those in need, particularly students from the lowest income groups.

These scholarships go beyond tuition fee waivers—they also include living allowances, academic support, and access to essential facilities. By doing so, UNHAS ensures that every student has an equal opportunity to complete their studies successfully and contribute meaningfully to national development.

3. Special Tuition Assistance Services for 2024 New Students

To further expand accessibility and provide direct support to students facing financial constraints, UNHAS has also established a Hotline and Special Tuition Assistance Desk for 2024 new students.

Through this service, students can directly consult about tuition reductions, installment payment schemes, and financial aid applications. The hotline and assistance desk serve as preventive measures to ensure that no prospective student from a low-income family loses the opportunity to begin their academic journey at UNHAS.

A Concrete Step Toward Education Without Barriers

Through initiatives such as the Rector’s commitment to student financial continuity, scholarship distribution for underprivileged students, and inclusive tuition assistance services, UNHAS reaffirms its dedication to creating an equitable and sustainable academic environment.

These policies not only ensure the graduation and success of students from the lowest economic backgrounds but also strengthen the role of education as a powerful instrument for social empowerment and poverty reduction. With this holistic approach, Universitas Hasanuddin continues to prove that the pursuit of knowledge knows no boundaries—even for those who come from the most modest economic circumstances.

Supporting Students from Low-Income Families in Achieving Success in Higher Education

To realize its commitment to poverty alleviation, Hasanuddin University (Unhas) provides comprehensive support to students from low-income families, ensuring that financial limitations do not hinder their pursuit of higher education. One of the university’s main initiatives is providing decent and affordable housing through the “RAMSIS” Student Dormitory, designed specifically to accommodate students from underprivileged backgrounds. The affordable rate, when compared to commercial off-campus housing, makes the dormitory an excellent and cost-effective option for students. In addition, the Dormitory in Gowa Campus (RAMTEK) also offers similar facilities that can be considered for the students from low-income families.

Unhas also plays an active role in improving dormitory management to meet students’ functional and technical needs. This division oversees maintenance, facility enhancement, and service quality to ensure that student housing remains sustainable and supportive. To strengthen dormitory management practices, Unhas also sent a delegation to Universiti Malaysia, where they learned best practices in sustainable and environmentally friendly dormitory operations.

Transportation support is another important aspect of Unhas’s inclusivity efforts. The university provides a free bicycle service as part of its green campus initiative, helping students move easily between campus areas while promoting eco-friendly mobility. Complementing this effort, the “Teman Bus” service connects the Gowa Engineering Campus with the Tamalanrea Main Campus, making commuting faster and more convenient for students. With the addition of two new routes and a fleet of 27 buses serving key university and urban areas, the program significantly enhances accessibility for the student community.

Unhas also ensures that financial administration is manageable for all students. A dedicated hotline and help desk have been established to assist new students with questions and issues related to tuition fees (Uang Kuliah Tunggal or UKT), ensuring they receive accurate information and timely support.

The university further extends its care through comprehensive health services for students. General and specialized medical care is available through on-campus health facilities. Additionally, in collaboration with the Faculty of Dentistry and the Student Professional Council, Unhas’s Dental and Oral Hospital (RSGMP) offers free dental check-ups for all students—an initiative that promotes student well-being and preventive healthcare awareness.

Beyond physical health, mental well-being is also a priority. The Psychology Department at Unhas provides free counseling services to help students manage stress, anxiety, and academic pressure. This initiative ensures that emotional and psychological support is accessible to all students, fostering a healthier learning environment.

Unhas also encourages a balanced and healthy lifestyle through recreational facilities. The Unhas swimming pool is open to the public at affordable rates, with special discounts for university members. This initiative promotes physical activity and helps students maintain a healthy body and mind while studying.

Financial and technological access is also strengthened through partnerships. The establishment of a CIMB Niaga Digital Lounge on campus allows students to conduct financial transactions easily and supports academic activities that require digital banking and payment services.

In times of emergency, Unhas ensures that students receive timely humanitarian assistance. For instance, during the evacuation of Unhas student hikers stranded on Mount Gandang Dewata, the university swiftly provided food aid and logistical support—demonstrating its responsiveness and concern for student welfare.

To support academic excellence, Unhas provides free access to ScienceDirect, a leading global database that allows students and faculty to access thousands of scholarly journals and e-books, enriching research and learning across disciplines. Furthermore, the Korean Corner at Unhas offers free Korean language training for students and the general public, broadening language proficiency and intercultural understanding that are essential for global engagement.

Through these comprehensive initiatives—ranging from affordable housing and transportation services to healthcare, counseling, academic resources, and skills development—Hasanuddin University actively empowers students from low-income families to complete their studies successfully. These efforts reflect Unhas’s broader mission to make education a transformative force for social mobility, equal opportunity, and poverty reduction. By fostering an inclusive academic environment, Unhas continues to prove that higher education is not a privilege for the few, but a right and opportunity for all.