Indonesia Prepares Student Program to Support Post-Disaster Recovery in NTT

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology is preparing a student initiative called AKSARA Mahasiswa to support disaster response and recovery efforts in areas affected by disasters in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The program is designed to strengthen the involvement of universities and students in assisting communities during the emergency response and post-disaster recovery phases.

The program was prepared after Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Brian Yuliarto, held an online meeting with rectors of public and private universities in affected areas on Tuesday August 18, 2026. The meeting aimed to obtain the latest reports, map needs on the ground, and ensure the safety of academic communities and the continuity of higher education activities.

Coordination continued with the rectors and heads of student executive bodies of Nusa Cendana University (Undana) and Mataram University (Unram). Students from both universities have already traveled directly to affected areas to assist local communities.

He expressed his appreciation for the concern and swift response shown by students, student organizations, and academic communities in responding to the needs of disaster-affected residents. “Students from Undana and Unram have gone directly to affected areas to help the community. This is a real manifestation of the spirit of mutual cooperation as well as genuine learning,” Brian said.

Through AKSARA Mahasiswa, the ministry will strengthen and coordinate the involvement of universities and students in disaster response and post-disaster recovery. Universities and students will contribute based on their expertise, capacity, and the needs identified on the ground.

Their contributions may include providing basic necessities, health services, psychosocial support and trauma recovery, disaster impact assessments, disaster preparedness education, and assistance with the community’s social and economic recovery. Brian said every university has expertise and resources that can be mobilized to support disaster response efforts.

“Through AKSARA Mahasiswa, we will bring all these strengths together so that the assistance provided is targeted, coordinated, and sustainable,” he said. He added that the program would also provide students with contextual learning opportunities to apply their knowledge in addressing real-world challenges faced by communities.

The program will be coordinated with universities, local governments, and relevant stakeholders while prioritizing the safety of student volunteers. The ministry is also continuing to monitor and coordinate with universities in affected areas, with the safety of academic communities, continuity of education, and support for community recovery remaining its top priorities.