Indonesian deputy minister says remote university classes are not yet needed after volcanic ash spread

Indonesia's higher education authorities have offered different advice on whether universities affected by volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau should move classes online.

Deputy Minister Stella Christie said fully remote learning was not yet necessary because students still benefit from in-person instruction when classes take place indoors. She urged universities, particularly in Jakarta, Banten and Lampung, to reduce activities outside buildings.

"No, perhaps I should correct that, it does not have to be entirely online for universities, because if we study indoors," Stella said after a meeting with the House of Representatives Commission X on Monday, Sept. 7. She said outdoor student activities in the affected areas should be postponed because the potential harm outweighed the benefits.

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No, perhaps I should correct that, it does not have to be entirely online for universities, because if we study indoors

Deputy Minister Fauzan issued different guidance the previous day. He encouraged universities affected by the ash to begin holding classes remotely and to reduce other outdoor activities, including office services and academic work.

"Office services, learning and other academic activities can therefore be carried out online or in hybrid form, or in whatever way is considered more effective at reducing illness caused by eruption dust," Fauzan said at an online news conference. He also called on university leaders to establish emergency posts, coordinate with local governments and mobilize assistance related to the eruption for residents and academic communities.

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Office services, learning and other academic activities can therefore be carried out online or in hybrid form, or in whatever way is considered more effective at reducing illness caused by eruption dust