Danadyaksa: Post Modern Economy Journal
Vol. 4 No. 1 (2026): Post Modern Economy Journal

The Role of Universitas Terbuka in Increasing the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) of Higher Education in Indonesia: A Comparative Study of Open Universities in Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand

Abdul Rahman Rahim (Universitas Terbuka, Tangerang, Indonesia)
Effendi Effendi (Universitas Terbuka, Tangerang, Indonesia)
Jalil Jalil (Universitas Terbuka, Tangerang, Indonesia)
Safri Safri (Universitas Muhammadiyah Makassar, Makassar, Indonesia)
Wahyuddin Wahyuddin (Universitas Muhammadiyah Makassar, Makassar, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
05 Apr 2026

Abstract

This study examines the role of Universitas Terbuka (UT) in increasing the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) of higher education in Indonesia, identifies supporting and inhibiting factors, and compares the strategies of open universities in Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand to formulate recommendations for UT Indonesia. The research uses a descriptive qualitative approach, with primary data collected through observations and in-depth interviews with UT administrators, lecturers, and stakeholders, complemented by comparative analysis of international practices. Data were analysed using qualitative techniques, including data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The results indicate that UT has contributed significantly to the national GER, with an average contribution of 16.12% and an increase to 19.19% in 2024. This contribution is supported by UT’s status as a public university, strong accreditation, government policy support, and flexible learning systems that expand access for remote communities and working adults. Comparative findings show that open universities in the selected countries emphasize inclusive education, digital learning, policy integration, and international collaboration. Based on these findings, UT Indonesia needs to strengthen digital transformation, expand blended learning, and enhance internationalization to improve competitiveness and support national human resource development.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

danadyaksa

Publisher

Subject

Decision Sciences, Operations Research & Management Economics, Econometrics & Finance

Description

Danadyaksa: Post Modern Economy Journal is an open-access, peer-reviewed journal whose objective is to publish original research papers related to the economy, Sharia economy, and business issues. This journal is also dedicated to disseminating the published articles freely for international ...