UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta has begun a financial audit by Indonesia’s state audit body, in a move aimed at strengthening transparency and accountability in its institutional governance.

The audit, conducted by the Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK), forms part of a broader review of financial management and asset oversight within the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

Rector Noorhaidi Hasan welcomed the audit team, describing the process as both constructive and necessary to improve governance standards across the university.

“We see this as an important step to strengthen transparency and accountability in our institution,” he said.

The university has reported significant institutional progress over the past 18 months, with around 75% of its study programs now rated “excellent,” and roughly 30% holding international accreditation. An additional 34 programs are currently undergoing international accreditation through AQUIN.

Research performance has also improved, with academic publications indexed in Scopus contributing to global rankings, including QS World University Rankings.

From a financial perspective, the university reported growth in its public service agency (BLU) revenue, while continuing to implement budget efficiency measures. Ongoing institutional developments include the validation process for a new medical faculty and the expansion of a second campus.

University officials said internal oversight has been strengthened through the Internal Audit Unit (SPI), which has been granted broader authority to monitor governance across departments. The institution was also recognized in 2025 as a “public information-compliant” body for the first time.

A representative of the audit team, Cahyadi Anjar Nugroho, said the review forms part of the 2025 financial audit of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, with UIN Sunan Kalijaga included as one of the sample institutions.

The audit, scheduled to run for five days, will examine key areas including expenditure management, internal controls, cash handling, and asset administration.

Particular attention is being given to previous concerns over budget shortfalls in salary expenditure recorded in 2024, with auditors seeking to ensure the issue has been resolved and will not recur.

Asset management is also under scrutiny, especially the legal status of land and buildings, as authorities aim to prevent ownership disputes and improve asset utilization amid limited state funding.

Auditors have requested that all supporting documents be prepared and presented by relevant officials, allowing for direct verification and clarification during the review process.

University management has instructed key personnel to remain on campus and available throughout the audit period to ensure smooth coordination.

Officials say the audit is expected to align understanding between auditors and the university, ensuring that findings accurately reflect institutional conditions and contribute to improved governance practices.