180 Students Apply for Free Private Vocational School in South Jakarta, Quota Limited to 36

JAKARTA - 180 prospective students have applied to Gapura Merah Putih Vocational School in Ciganjur, Jagakarsa, South Jakarta. The school has operated a free private school (SSG) programme initiated by the Jakarta Provincial Government for two years.

“For the new academic year, 180 prospective students have already applied, despite our quota being only 36 new students,” said Dona Ulfa, Head of Gerbang Merah Putih Health Vocational School, during an interview at her office on Tuesday, 26 May 2026.

Gapura Merah Putih currently has three classes: Year 10, Year 11, and Year 12. Each cohort consists of a single class with 20-30 students. Of the total 70 students, the majority are female and only five are male. Nearly all students are residents of Jagakarsa and surrounding areas.

The high demand for the school stems from growing awareness of free health vocational schools. Consequently, applicants now come from across Jakarta, not just Jagakarsa.

“Previously, people thought health schools were expensive. When there is a free health vocational school, parents and students interested in healthcare naturally show interest,” Dona explained.

The private vocational school specialises in nursing education and currently has 70 students. Dona stated that the SSG programme enables students to pursue free vocational nursing education, particularly for those from low-income families.

“It is entirely free from registration and selection, including enrolment fees, tuition, and practical training costs,” she added.