Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Renowned Indonesian writer Okky Madasari has publicly criticized Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (MendiktiSaintek), Professor Stella Christie, for conducting a session on applying to overseas universities.
In a social media post on Tuesday, December 10, Okky questioned the appropriateness of Stella’s focus, arguing it was misaligned with her role as a high-ranking government official.
“Frankly, I find this troubling. A Deputy Minister of Higher Education holding a sharing session on how to get into foreign universities? Really?” Okky wrote, as reported by Berita Rakyat.
The celebrated author asserted that Stella should prioritize addressing issues within Indonesia’s higher education system instead of encouraging students to study abroad.
“As a Deputy Minister, what you should focus on is this: Why do Indonesians still feel the need to pursue undergraduate studies overseas? What is wrong, and what needs fixing in our higher education system? You are a deputy minister, not an influencer promoting foreign education,” she added.
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Okky’s remarks came after Stella Christie conducted an online session on Monday (December 9) through the official YouTube channel of Indonesia’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology. During the session, Stella shared strategies for Indonesian students to prepare for studying abroad, recounting her personal experience as a graduate of Harvard University.
She encouraged students to pursue studies overseas and not to let financial concerns deter their ambitions. Christie highlighting that scholarships and government partnerships with universities can help cover tuition costs for Indonesian students.
Deputy Minister Stella Christie session aimed to inspire students to dream big and pursue quality education globally, yet Okky’s criticism raises broader questions about the government’s focus particularly the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology on strengthening Indonesia’s domestic higher education system.
(Raidi/Agung)
