Indonesia's Ministry of Education investigates TKA 2026 cheating allegations

The Indonesian Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) is investigating reports of cheating during the 2026 Academic Competency Test (TKA) for high school and vocational students. Inspector General Faisal Syahrul stated that the ministry has identified several individuals suspected of involvement and is currently conducting in-depth examinations to verify evidence.

Minister Abdul Mu'ti announced that students proven to have cheated will receive a score of zero. Additionally, dishonest exam supervisors will be blacklisted from future testing duties. The investigation follows reports of potential misconduct, including the alleged use of artificial intelligence (AI) and live streaming via platforms like YouTube to share exam content.

The first wave of the TKA was completed by approximately 1.6 million students. To address technical issues encountered during the first wave, a special session was held for over 530,000 affected participants. The ministry emphasized that the TKA is intended for academic evaluation and improvement rather than as a mandatory requirement for graduation.