‘Catholic Private Schools Are Expensive’ – Now Poor Students Can Attend for Free

Jakarta’s free private school programme is helping students from low-income families access quality education. The initiative is also easing the financial burden on parents.

Sustrivo Togatorop, assistant principal at SMK Sint Joseph in Central Jakarta, said many students come from families with limited means, including those from outside the capital such as Nias, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), and Kalimantan. “Parents’ financial situations truly need support. This free private school programme has been a huge help,” Sustrivo said during an interview at SMK Sint Joseph in Central Jakarta on Tuesday, 26 May 2026.

However, after the programme’s funds were disbursed in January 2026, all entrance and tuition fees already paid were refunded to parents. “For those who enrolled in 2025, the entrance and tuition fees they paid to the school were refunded once the funds were released,” he said. Previously, the school would send monthly invoices, but this burden has now been lifted. “Parents feel relieved. They say the savings can be put towards university fees later,” he added.

He noted many parents previously hesitated to send their children to private schools due to high costs, especially Catholic institutions. Even so, some parents still ask whether the school is truly free, including for practical fees, entrance fees, and tuition.

In addition to aiding students, the free private school programme has also improved school facilities. Sustrivo explained the programme funds are being used to upgrade practical equipment across all departments, ensuring students keep pace with industry developments.