'Only the rich can go to school'
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