DKI Provincial Government Opens Opportunities to Add Free Schools, Madrasahs to Be Reviewed

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government is opening opportunities to increase the number of free schools in the capital. In addition, the expansion of the programme is being reviewed to include madrasah-based schools. DKI Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung stated that the plan to add free schools would be adjusted according to the region’s financial capacity. According to him, expanding the free school programme is part of the Provincial Government’s efforts to ensure more equitable access to education for all residents, including those from vulnerable economic groups. Pramono emphasised that they are also reviewing the possibility of including madrasahs in the programme. Currently, the free school programme in Jakarta has been implemented in 103 private schools spread across five administrative regions. Meanwhile, all public schools in Jakarta no longer charge education fees. The DKI Provincial Government is also continuing to promote various other education programmes, such as the Jakarta Smart Card (KJP), the Jakarta Outstanding Student Card (KJMU), and the waiver of diplomas. “Hopefully, this will increasingly narrow the opportunities for Jakarta children to not be able to attend school due to inability,” he said. Head of the DKI Jakarta Education Office, Nahdiana, explained that of the total 103 free private schools, 40 schools have already been running the programme until the end of the academic year. To support the programme, the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has allocated a budget of Rp 253.6 billion. “The budget allocated for 103 private schools is Rp 253,625,139,600,” said Nahdiana.