ULM Finalizes PSDKU Preparations in Balangan, Two Study Programs Targeted to Open in 2026
Balangan – Lambung Mangkurat University (ULM) continues to strengthen its role in expanding access to higher education in South Kalimantan by preparing to establish Off-Campus Study Programs (PSDKU) in Balangan Regency. This effort was realized through a direct inspection of the location and facility readiness conducted by the ULM PSDKU Team in conjunction with the Balangan Regency Government on Thursday (December 4, 2025) in South Paringin.
During the visit, the ULM PSDKU Team inspected four locations projected to support academic activities: the Animal Husbandry Breeding Center, the Environmental Laboratory Technical Implementation Unit (UPTD), the Balangan Vocational Training Center (BLK), and the Islamic Elementary School (SDIT) building behind the Al-Akbar Mosque. This inspection is crucial in ensuring the physical readiness of the lecture halls and practical facilities, which will be assessed during the assessor visitation stage.
The Head of the ULM PSDKU Team, Ansar Nor, explained that this visit aims to ensure that all prepared facilities meet higher education standards. According to him, the available lecture and practical facilities are considered adequate to support the learning process. He also believes Balangan Regency has great potential to develop as a new educational center in the Banua Anam region due to its strategic location and good accessibility.
From the local government perspective, Tuhalus, Assistant for Economic and Development Affairs at the Balangan Regional Secretariat, stated that the Balangan Regency Government is targeting the opening of two study programs in early 2026: Animal Husbandry and Mechanical Engineering. He emphasized that the local government has provided full support, from grant funding to supporting facilities and infrastructure such as buildings, learning facilities, laboratories, and practical locations.
The presence of the ULM PSDKU in Balangan is seen as a strategic step to improve the quality of the region’s human resources. Through this collaboration, ULM not only expands higher education services but also contributes directly to promoting equitable access to education and improving the competencies of the younger generation so they can play an active role in regional development.
With ongoing preparations in collaboration with the local government, ULM is optimistic that the Balangan PSDKU can soon be operational and become a center for higher education development relevant to the regional needs and local potential of Balangan Regency.
