'School facilities need improvement'

The city administration is aiming to provide free education for elementary and junior high students in the capital by 2006 and for that purpose it aims to increase school subsidies. The Jakarta Post asked some residents for their opinions on the issue.

Andriana Adinegara, 30, works as a claims assistant at PT ACE INA Insurance in South Jakarta. He lives in Jatibening, Bekasi:

In principle, this is a good idea in order to produce bright youngsters.

However, if the program is not supported by other endeavors aimed at poverty eradication, I don't think poor people will let their children go to school at all, even if it's free. They would rather have their children work to supplement the family's income.

Another problem that might occur from providing free education is the number of educated unemployed. The government would need to open up more job opportunities for these people.

Hendro S. Joedho, 50, is an employee of state oil and gas company PT Pertamina who lives in Jakarta:

The Jakarta administration's plan to provide free schooling is, of course, something that we have all been waiting for, and should have the support of the population.

Besides providing free tuition for students, what needs to be taken into consideration is also the condition of teaching and learning facilities at the school, and also the teacher's own welfare.

We all know there are many schools with limited facilities. In the rainy season, school buildings flood, or the roof leaks. And many teachers are forced to supplement their income by teaching overtime, selling text books and even by driving ojek (motorcycle taxis).

I'm optimistic that the plan will be beneficial in creating a new generation of intellectuals, which this country really needs, as long as it is not used as an opportunity for new forms of corruption.

I hope the administration is serious in this effort, and not just making empty promises ahead of the gubernatorial election.

-- The Jakarta Post