KIP-K as a Government Strategy in Achieving Equitable Access to Higher Education in the City of Tasikmalaya

Abstract

This research aims to analyse the role of the Smart Indonesia Card for Higher Education Programme (KIP-K) as a government policy instrument in ensuring equitable access to educational services for underprivileged communities in the City of Tasikmalaya. The study employs a descriptive qualitative approach, with data collection techniques involving in-depth interviews, observation, and documentary analysis that include beneficiary students as well as programme administrators at higher education institutions. Data analysis was conducted thematically, applying source and technique triangulation to ensure data validity. The findings indicate that KIP-K functions effectively as an affirmative state policy in reducing structural barriers to educational access, promoting study continuity, and strengthening the academic responsibility of aid recipients. However, the effectiveness of policy implementation continues to face challenges related to administrative procedures, inadequate policy dissemination, and limited information literacy among target groups. This research concludes that KIP-K represents a relevant public policy instrument in realising the principles of social justice and the fulfilment of citizens' constitutional rights in the field of education. The limitations of this study lie in its geographical scope and qualitative approach, thus necessitating further research with a broader methodological design.