School Principal Complains to Jakarta Governor About Free Private School Fund Disbursement Delays

The Free Private School (SSG) programme initiated by the Jakarta Provincial Government has received a positive response from schools. However, the mechanism of fund disbursement every six months is considered burdensome as it hampers operations, particularly concerning teacher salary payments.

This complaint was conveyed directly by the Principal of SD Bhakti Luhur, Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, during a dialogue with Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung at a joint breaking-of-fast event at the Jakarta Education Office (Disdik), Thursday (26 February). The principal expressed that the SSG programme represents a genuine solution for schools whose majority of students come from disadvantaged families. “I feel as though I have received a windfall, Sir. Because our students’ families are truly lower-middle class,” he stated.

The school, located on Wijaya Street, no longer faces concerns about monthly fee arrears. In addition to easing the burden on parents, the programme has reportedly improved the welfare of teaching staff. “Alhamdulillah, fundamentally I am grateful for receiving the SSG programme. I have gained many benefits. The children no longer worry about fees. Teacher salaries have also increased,” he said.

Operational Challenges

Whilst appreciating the policy, he criticised the fund disbursement pattern from Disdik, which occurs per semester (six months). The overly lengthy time interval makes school management struggling to manage cash flow, frequently facing pressure from teachers. “However, in its implementation, please do not make it six months. I am confused. My subordinates keep demanding payment,” he said before the Jakarta Disdik officials.

He hopes the Jakarta Provincial Government will evaluate the policy by accelerating the disbursement duration to every three months so that school operations are more stable. “If possible, not every month, but every three months. So there is also room to breathe, Sir,” he said.

Responding to this aspiration, Governor Pramono Anung immediately issued instructions to the Education Office to follow up on complaints regarding the technical aspects of fund disbursement. “Ms Nana, Mr Joko, please listen to this, three months,” Pramono emphasised.