Evaluasi Program Pemberian Beasiswa Kerjasama Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Pemerintah Kabupaten Labuhanbatu Utara dan Dampaknya terhadap Mahasiswa Penerima Beasiswa

Abstract

This study aims to conduct an in-depth evaluation of the implementation of the scholarship program established through the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government of Labuhanbatu Utara Regency and several partner universities, as well as to comprehensively analyze its impact on the educational quality of scholarship recipients. The background of this research stems from the fundamental issue of low participation rates in higher education, particularly in Labuhanbatu Utara Regency, despite the local government having initiated the MoU-based scholarship program as a strategic effort to enhance the quality of human resources. The low Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) in higher education, annual fluctuations in the number of scholarship recipients, and the dynamics of program implementation highlight the urgent need for a holistic evaluation of this program. This study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods. The qualitative approach is applied through in-depth interviews, direct observations, and document analysis with key informants such as government officials managing the program and student scholarship recipients. Meanwhile, the quantitative approach is applied through surveys using questionnaires distributed to students who benefit from the MoU scholarships. The evaluation model used is the CIPP model (Context, Input, Process, Product) developed by Stufflebeam, which provides a comprehensive evaluation framework covering the policy context, program design and resources, implementation process, as well as the outcomes and impacts of the program. By using a mixed-methods approach, this research not only presents numerical and statistical data but also captures the narratives and subjective experiences of scholarship recipients. This study serves as an academic reference for evaluating public policy initiatives based on partnerships between local governments and universities, while also contributing valuable insights for designing scholarship policies that are fairer, more inclusive, and sustainable. Ultimately, although this scholarship program still has various limitations, the findings affirm that the MoU scholarship initiated by the Government of Labuhanbatu Utara Regency is a concrete step toward developing high-quality human resources. Through continuous improvements, it is hoped that this program will keep contributing to the future of education in the region, reduce disparities in access to higher education, and strengthen the competitiveness of young generations in the global era.