Anwar Siswadi (Kontributor), Jakarta – Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) responds to the government and the People's Representative Council (DPR)'s decision to not grant mining management permits to higher education institutions.
ITB believes that this decision is in line with the basic principles of higher education institutions in implementing the Tri Dharma of Higher Education, namely education, research, and community service.
"We believe that the decision to not grant mining management permits to higher education institutions is the right step," said ITB Rector Tatacipta Dirgantara in a written statement on Tuesday, February 18, 2025.
Previously, the DPR had proposed that higher education institutions be allowed to manage mining in the revision of Law No. 3 of 2020 concerning Mineral and Coal Mining (Mining Law).
However, ITB views that mining activities involve significant investment, have long-term capital returns, and carry high levels of risk that require careful management.
Therefore, according to Tata, the involvement of higher education institutions in direct mining management can pose serious challenges to academic independence and the integrity of educational institutions.
Globally, there are no higher education institutions directly holding mining concessions because this could create a negative perception regarding the bias of higher education institutions towards certain industries.
"ITB shares the same view as the cancellation decision, so that higher education institutions can maintain their dignity by focusing on the Tri Dharma of Higher Education and preserving their academic independence," he said.
However, ITB believes that higher education institutions can still contribute to the Indonesian mining industry in various ways. These include producing competent graduates ready to work in the Indonesian mining industry.
Furthermore, conducting research and applying its results for the advancement of the mining industry. And providing expertise services in the field of mining through official business units owned by higher education institutions.
In addition, ITB also sees that the expected benefits from the mining industry for higher education institutions include providing mining locations allocated by the government or industry for practical activities and research.
Rector said ITB remains committed to supporting the progress of the national mining industry through its role as an academic institution focused on the development of science and technology, without compromising its academic independence.