Global challenges to RI education

Global challenges to RI education

From Suara Karya

Indonesia is facing a major problem in education, with its high dropout rate, widespread cases of damaged schools and, reportedly, millions of illiterate children.

This gloomy picture is worsened by corruption in the education sector and illegal enrolment fees charged by state schools, so that only those children from the high income bracket can enjoy proper schooling.

In addition, the quality of teachers is generally low, and the relevant authorities have made inadequate attempts to improve the situation. Education policies have so far failed to meet the need for quality human resources in response to the global era.

Attention should therefore be paid to human resource development for the nation's future advancement. The 20 percent allocation of the state budget for education and the enforcement of a national education system is not enough as a solution.

More importantly, a commitment should be made to enhance the quality of education through curriculum reform -- by increasing the number of subjects beneficial to the developoment of better living standards, particularly in the face of global competition.

SONYA VIONA Depok, West Java