'Only the rich can go to good schools'

'Only the rich can go to good schools'

On May 2 on National Education Day, President Susilo Bambang
Yudhoyono blasted the growing number of private schools, many of
which put profit before quality education. Ironically, the
government has yet to allocate 40 percent of the state budget to
provide quality, affordable education for all as stipulated in
the Constitution. The Jakarta Post asked Jakartans their thoughts
on the issue.

Hendarti, 34, is a shopkeeper in Mangga Dua, Central Jakarta.
She lives with her husband, who is a civil servant, and their two
children, who are still in elementary school in Ciputat,
Tangerang regency:

The government cannot live up to its own words. It says that
all children have to go to school under its nine-year compulsory
education policy. But it does not provide free education for
elementary and junior high school.

Only the rich can send their children to school, particularly
a good school. A simple state elementary school, asks over Rp 2
million for an entrance fee.

Thank God I can still afford school fees as my children are
still in the elementary school.

But it would be a great help if the government provided free
education so I can save and send them to high school and
university.

Parman, 40, is a driver of public minivan that travels the
route from Kebayoran Lama in South Jakarta to Tanah Abang,
Central Jakarta. He lives in a rented house in Kampung Baru
district, West Jakarta:

I do not really care about the quality of the schools that my
children go to. The most important thing is that they can
continue their studies, at least up to high school.

Frankly speaking, it is hard for me to afford the monthly
school fees.

I have three children -- one in junior high school and two in
elementary school. I must spend at least Rp 250,000 per month for
their education.

I heard that the city administration is providing free
education for poor families. But, why can't I enjoy that
facility?

If the government has really subsidized school fees for
elementary and junior high school, it will ease my burden. I will
not have this headache ... I can spend more to buy nutritious
food for my children.

--The Jakarta Post