On Wednesday, February 1, 2023, the Mathematics Study Program at the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST), Universitas Airlangga, responded to an invitation from the Sampang district Private Vocational School Principals Association (MKKS). The purpose of this invitation was to provide insights into the Bidik Misi program or Smart Indonesia Card (KIP) for students and teaching staff in the Sampang district. Two lecturers from the Mathematics Study Program, Abdulloh Jaelani, M.Sc., and Siti Zahidah, M.Si., participated as resource persons. The engagement of the UNAIR FST Mathematics Study Program in this event is intended to contribute to the realization of inclusive and quality education, aligning with the fourth point of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Held at An-Noer Omber Vocational School in Sampang, Madura, the event drew the participation of 70 attendees, including principals from private vocational schools across Sampang Regency. The conference commenced with the opening remarks from the MKKS chairman, followed by a prayer. During the main session, the two speakers addressed various aspects related to the KIP Kuliah program. Abdulloh Jaelani underscored, “KIP 2023 is not exclusively for those interested in state universities but is also applicable for private universities.” This message aimed to motivate private vocational school principals to remain optimistic and encourage economically disadvantaged graduates to pursue further studies through the Bidik Misi or KIP-Kuliah route, not limited to state universities but inclusive of private institutions.

Siti Zahidah provided practical advice on the registration process for KIP for college, emphasizing the importance of completing the required data for a successful application. She clarified, “Participants often struggle to understand what constitutes valid evidence. For instance, if a parent is a farmer without a pay slip, they can obtain a letter from the village head as proof.” Siti Zahidah further explained that the amount of assistance participants receive is contingent on the costs and location of the destination university. This ensures that participants need not worry about gaining admission to a university with relatively higher tuition fees or living costs, as the KIP program adjusts to the conditions of the destination university.