Medical School Head Reinstated After Controversial Dismissal
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Loading... - Chang Jiandan
- 12 Jul 2024
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Airlangga University professor Budi Santoso has been reinstated as the dean of the medical school after a controversial dismissal earlier this month that sparked significant backlash. Budi's removal was allegedly due to his criticism of the government's plan to address Indonesia’s medical staff shortages by inviting foreign doctors.
Controversial Dismissal
On June 27, Budi made a public statement opposing the Health Ministry's plan to recruit foreign doctors, arguing that local medical schools could produce graduates of comparable quality. Shortly after his remarks, Budi was reportedly summoned by the university’s rector and dismissed from his position on July 1. This move raised suspicions that his dismissal was a direct result of his criticism of the government's policy.
Public Outcry and Protests
The university's decision to dismiss Budi led to widespread outrage from the public and constitutional law experts. Critics argued that Budi's removal violated his rights to freedom of expression and academic freedom, as enshrined in the 1945 Constitution and the 2012 University Law. In response, dozens of lecturers, staff members, students, and alumni staged protests, demanding Budi's reinstatement. Some even suggested that all lecturers, vice deans, and staff should remain on strike until Budi was reinstated as dean.
Reinstatement Announcement
Following the protests and public outcry, Budi Santoso was reinstated as dean on July 8. The announcement was made by Airlangga University’s rector, Mohammad Nasih, during a press conference on July 9. Nasih stated, “We understood what Budi was trying to say, and there are reasons for us to appoint him [back] as dean. The matter’s concluded.” He emphasized that Budi’s previous comment was “a thing of the past.”
Resolution and Apology
Rector Nasih explained that the decision to reinstate Budi came after receiving a letter from the professor objecting to his dismissal. During the press conference, Budi admitted that he was wrong to make the statement regarding the government’s plan. “I personally apologized to the chancellor. I intended to represent myself personally [when criticizing the Health Ministry], but perhaps it went too far, which led to my statement being associated with the institution,” Budi said.
Nasih confirmed that the university would revoke its decree to dismiss Budi and that he would return to work on July 10.
Conclusion
The reinstatement of Professor Budi Santoso as dean of the medical school at Airlangga University marks the resolution of a contentious issue that highlighted the importance of academic freedom and freedom of expression. The university's decision to reverse the dismissal reflects a commitment to upholding these principles while addressing the concerns raised by Budi's public statements.
