<![CDATA[This study aims to analyze the political elements in the implementation of the free school program in Bengkulu Province and to evaluate the implementation, benefits, and challenges of the policy. The background of this research is the high cost of education, which limits access for underprivileged children; therefore, the government initiated the free school program to improve educational equity. This research employed a qualitative method with a document-based policy analysis approach. Data were obtained through the analysis of official documents, such as government regulations, the Bengkulu Governor's Regulations, School Operational Assistance reports, and scholarly literature related to education and politics. This approach enables a comprehensive exploration of the policy based on valid and verified evidence. The results indicate that the free school program has produced positive impacts, including improved access to education for underprivileged children, support for equitable distribution of education quality, and contribution to the national goal of educating the population. However, the program also has a significant political dimension, as the use of the “free school” slogan during the 2024 regional elections in Bengkulu was linked to the electability of regional head candidates. Additional challenges include fund management, limited facilities, and the need for transparency in program implementation. Although the free school program has political elements, it has provided tangible benefits to the community, both in terms of access to education and the enhancement of human resource quality. This study emphasizes the importance of managing education policy transparently and sustainably to ensure that social and political objectives are aligned.]]>
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