On higher school standards

On Nov. 15, 2003, an article I wrote was printed in The Jakarta Post titled RI's school should target higher standards.

It is apparent that article has led to discussions, and concerns have been expressed.

It has been suggested that the article set out to undermine the position of National Plus schools in Indonesia. This is something that I regret and I can say was not the intention.

The introduction of "international elements" to a school in Indonesia is a reasonable and understandable course of action. The article, however, reflected on the concern that it is of vital importance that the local context and culture are also allowed to form a central and valued part of the education a school provides. Undoubtedly, schools strive to achieve this, but when we are reminded of this concern, it is important to be receptive and responsive.

For example, parents often express their desire to see traditional Indonesian instruments in music classrooms. Likewise, parents often reflect on the value of having their children go on a school trip to a traditional Indonesian food market so that they are aware of how other people live. Other parents express a wish for their children to learn traditional Indonesian games such as Conglak and Galacyn.

Each of these examples suggests that parents are keen for their children to have a more "internationalized" education, but still retain Indonesian elements.

Some readers have noted that "the underlying intention" is toward developing a relevant and receptive system for students: "Relevant with the current situation as well as future needs, receptive, in reflecting the local setting as well as international demands".

This was indeed the "underlying intention", and naturally I regret that the writing may have been read in such a way as to perceive it as an intended attack. National Plus schools are, without a doubt, a beneficial contribution to the development of Indonesian education.

SIMON MARCUS GOWER Jakarta