Indonesian Education Policy and Justice Review
Vol. 1 No. 2 (2024): June, 2024

Free Education, Equal Opportunity? Evaluating the Quality of Public Education in Indonesia

Azlan Bin Riduan (Universiti Darul Iman Malaysia)
Siti Hajar (Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Apr 2024

Abstract

This paper critically evaluates the quality of public education in Indonesia within the context of the government’s policy of providing free education. While the abolition of school fees has increased access to education for many children, the quality of education remains uneven, particularly in underfunded regions. The study investigates the disparities in educational quality by examining the availability of resources, teacher qualifications, and student outcomes in both urban and rural schools. Through a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and interviews with educators, students, and policymakers, the research assesses whether the policy of free education has truly leveled the playing field or if significant gaps in quality persist. The findings suggest that while the policy has made education more accessible, the lack of sufficient infrastructure, inadequate teacher training, and disparities in educational materials undermine the quality of education in many areas. The paper proposes policy adjustments to ensure that the goal of equal opportunity in education is met, including increased investment in teacher professional development, school infrastructure, and curriculum resources.

Copyrights © 2024






Journal Info

Abbrev

education

Publisher

Subject

Description

Indonesian Education Policy and Justice Review (e-ISSN: 3164-5038) is published by COLLEGIUM JUSTICIA INDONESIA, first published in 2024, and issued quarterly in March, June, September, and December in online format (electronic journal). It is a peer-reviewed, open-access scholarly journal focusing ...