HARIANEXPRESS – The Magetan Regency Government has rejected plans for Universitas Negeri Surabaya (Unesa) Campus 5 development in the city center, sparking critical questions regarding regional economic and educational growth, (1/9/2026).
The presence of Unesa in Magetan was anticipated as a significant boost for education and a prime opportunity to stimulate the local economy. However, this aspiration now faces the Magetan Regency Government’s disapproval for developing the campus in the central city area.
Critics question why a state university campus, with its potential as an educational hub and economic driver, is not being directed to expand within the city center. While the Magetan Government states its support for Unesa, this principled backing reportedly needs concrete policy action.
For the community, campus development is more than just buildings or government assets; it represents a long-term investment in regional education and economy. Many cities demonstrate how universities in urban areas invigorate economic life, supporting local businesses and services.
Thousands of students contribute to the economy through their needs for housing, food, transportation, and various services like printing, bookstores, and laundry. This influx can transform ordinary areas into vibrant economic centers, benefiting small and medium-sized enterprises (UMKM).
Magetan needs new growth centers, and Unesa’s presence could be a catalyst for such development. Directing the campus outside the city center prompts critical inquiries into whether the local government views higher education solely as a facility or also as an economic engine.
Although careful management of regional assets is crucial, educational development also requires bold strategic decisions. The concern is that asset-related issues might cause Magetan to miss this significant opportunity.
The government’s decision not to approve Unesa’s central city development warrants open questioning. It needs to be clarified whether asset limitations sufficiently outweigh such a substantial opportunity, or if innovative cooperation schemes could allow campus development in strategic areas without compromising asset management.
The local government must transparently explain the strategic reasons, Magetan’s advantages, and the economic impact if the campus is placed outside the city center. This clarity is essential, as people need to see a clear roadmap and concrete benefits beyond a general statement of “demi pemerataan pembangunan” (for equitable development).
Unesa has demonstrated confidence in Magetan, prompting a crucial question for the local government: Is Magetan ready to embrace its role as an education city, or will it allow this opportunity to move elsewhere?
While asset preservation is a government duty, there is an equally significant obligation to safeguard education’s future and expand economic opportunities for the community.
