On May 22, 2025, students from Cenderawasih University (Uncen) in Jayapura staged a protest against the proposed increase in the Single Tuition Fee (UKT). The demonstration escalated into a confrontation with security forces, leading to the burning of a police vehicle and injuries to several officers. However, amidst the unrest, rumors circulated on social media claiming that a student had died during the protest. These claims have been thoroughly investigated and debunked by authorities.
The Protest and Its Escalation
The students organized the protest to express their opposition to the planned UKT hike, which they argued would place an additional financial burden on students, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The demonstration began peacefully but turned violent when security personnel attempted to disperse the crowd. Reports indicate that a police vehicle was set on fire during the incident, and several officers sustained injuries.
Debunking the Death Rumor
Amidst the chaos, rumors spread on social media alleging that a student had died during the protest. These claims were promptly addressed by local authorities. The Jayapura City Police confirmed that no fatalities occurred during the demonstration. They also clarified that the circulating images and videos were from previous incidents and not related to the May 22 protest. The police emphasized the importance of verifying information before sharing it to prevent the spread of misinformation.
Government’s Response
In response to the students’ concerns, the Indonesian government announced the cancellation of the planned UKT increase. Education and Culture Minister Nadiem Makarim stated that the decision was made after considering the aspirations of various stakeholders and engaging in dialogue with universities. The government assured that no tuition fee hikes would be implemented this year, and a reevaluation of future requests would take place in the coming months.
Conclusion
The protest at Cenderawasih University highlighted the students’ commitment to advocating for affordable education. While the demonstration turned violent, it is crucial to distinguish between fact and fiction. The denial of the student death rumor underscores the importance of responsible information dissemination. The government’s decision to cancel the UKT increase reflects a responsive approach to student concerns and a commitment to accessible education.
