LPDP Boosts Inclusivity and Cooperation With Non-English Speaking Countries

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – The Endowment Fund for Education Agency (LPDP) is expanding access for Indonesian youth. LPDP President Director, Sudarto, stated that the agency prioritizes social justice through the Affirmative Path program and also building new partnerships with universities in non-English-speaking countries.

He announced that the number of Affirmation Path students increased by 30% in the last three years. This growth helps make the scholarship program more inclusive.

He shared this update at the Ministry of Finance on Thursday, 25 February 2026. The Affirmation Path is specially designed for indigenous Papuans, people living in underdeveloped areas, and students from underprivileged families. It also supports people with disabilities and talented young athletes.

He also explained that while LPDP looks for top talent, being inclusive is a priority. This is shown by the simpler requirements for Affirmation Path applicants.

“Many bright Indonesian youth do not have the same opportunities. Therefore, we provide an Afirmation Path with requirements that are different from the general path. For example, as I said, English is not always required,” he said.

LPDP is not just making language rules easier, it is also encouraging students to explore new places. Sudarto added that in 2026, the agency will strengthen ties with top universities in countries like Germany, France, China, Japan, and South Korea.

Sudarto stated, “Similarly, in 2026, we will be doing a lot of collaborations with top universities abroad. This includes encouraging prospective awardees to study not only in English-speaking countries, but also in Germany, France, China, Japan, Korea, and Russia. The quality is also very good, and the costs are certainly more affordable.”

Sending students to these different countries helps Indonesia build a workforce that speaks many languages and understands different cultures. This is expected to create a strong global network to help Indonesia grow in the future.