Govt allocates $702,000 for e-learning

JAKARTA: The government has allocated Rp 6.25 billion (about US$702,000) for the installation of e-learning technology equipment for 50 cities in eight provinces.

The Ministry of Education's director for vocational education Gatot Haripriowirjanto said on Friday that last year the ministry spent Rp 1.125 billion for the installation of e-learning equipment in nine cities in seven provinces.

Arif Rachman, the chairman of the national committee of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), however, said that what was important for the education sector right now was to expand education access for poor citizens like street children, for example.

He suggested the government first improve the quality of teachers and basic educational facilities.

"Technology is important but I think most teachers in Indonesia are still busy thinking about what their families have to eat every day," Arif said.

E-learning technology allows students to study through Internet programs fortified with graphic texts, animation and sound effects.

So far, the Directorate of Vocational Education has developed 40 learning subjects on automotive engineering, information technology, electrical installation, machine tool technology, as well as metal and wood craftsmanship. --JP