Journal Didaskalia
Vol 9 No 1: Journal Didaskalia - April 2026

Structural Barriers to the Implementation of Christian Religious Education in Indonesian Public Schools: A Policy and Institutional Practice Analysis

Ohira Ohira (Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Injili Indonesia Batam)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Apr 2026

Abstract

Christian Religious Education (CRE) in Indonesian public schools faces layered and systemic structural barriers. This study aims to analyze these barriers from the perspectives of educational policy and institutional practice. A qualitative approach with literature review and policy document analysis was employed. Data were gathered from academic journals, regulatory documents, government reports, and verified media coverage. The study identifies five primary barriers: (1) educational management dualism between the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Regional Education Offices, generating institutional responsibility ambiguity; (2) a significant CRE teacher deficit with a ratio of 1:8.5 teachers per public school; (3) inadequate learning facilities and infrastructure; (4) structural discrimination against CRE teachers in appointment, certification, and welfare; and (5) discrimination against Christian students in school operational practices. These findings indicate that root causes lie not merely in technical implementation but in flawed policy design and cross-sectoral coordination failure. Comprehensive policy reform is urgently required, including revision of inter-agency coordination mechanisms, strengthening of CRE teacher recruitment and welfare systems, and enforcement of monitoring mechanisms for religious minority students' rights in public schools.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

didaskalia

Publisher

Subject

Religion

Description

Journal Didaskalia published by STTII Surabaya as a means of developing evangelical values in Christian Religious Education by focusing on spiritual, knowledge and teaching skills of Christian education. Scientific work using educational and general study using Bible, field research and analysis ...