Gerindra DKI Supports Expansion of Free Private Schools, Provides These Notes

Deputy Chairman of the Jakarta DPRD from the Gerindra Faction, Rani Mauliani, supports the plan to add more free private schools in Jakarta. However, Rani requests that free private schools focus on quality and be targeted appropriately.

“We in the Jakarta DPRD, particularly Commission E, appreciate and support every effort to expand inclusive and equitable access to education, including the plan to add free private schools that also target madrasah. This is a positive step to ensure no Jakarta child is hindered from schooling due to economic factors,” Rani told reporters on Saturday (2/5/2026).

The Jakarta Provincial Government has allocated a budget of Rp 253.6 billion to fund 103 private schools that will be made free. This programme will start in July 2026.

Rani said that if the Provincial Government wants to increase the number of free private schools, it must be prepared well. Rani emphasised that the programme must prioritise quality.

“However, we emphasise that this policy must be prepared thoroughly and measurably. Adding the number of free schools must not only focus on quantity but must be accompanied by guarantees of educational quality, curriculum readiness, and transparency in the selection mechanism,” she said.

Furthermore, Rani said the criteria for free private schools must prioritise those in areas with limited capacity in public schools. Thus, she said, the presence of this programme truly addresses community needs.

“Second, schools with a good track record of governance and accountability. Third, having decent educational quality standards, both in terms of teaching staff and facilities. Fourth, targeting middle to lower economic groups appropriately,” she stated.

The Jakarta Provincial Government previously said the addition of free private schools will also target madrasah. Rani hopes the Provincial Government collaborates with the Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

“For madrasah, adjustments and synergy with the Ministry of Religious Affairs are certainly needed to maintain educational standards and avoid policy overlaps,” she explained.

Rani said the Jakarta DPRD will oversee this plan. She hopes the Jakarta Provincial Government pays attention to the notes provided by council members.

“We will also oversee the budgeting aspect to ensure the programme is sustainable and does not create new problems in the future,” she said.

“So in essence, we support it, but with notes: it must be targeted, transparent, and still prioritise educational quality,” she added.

Pramono Opens Opportunity to Add Free Private Schools in DKI

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has opened the possibility of adding free private schools if the budget allows. Pramono also said that in the future, private schools under the Ministry of Religious Affairs, namely madrasah, can be added.

“Hopefully in the future, if the fiscal space of the Jakarta DPRD can add, we will definitely add (free private schools),” Pramono said at the Jakarta DPRD building on Thursday (30/4).

“It must be fair for everyone, including madrasah,” he continued.