The Inquiry

The article discusses the ongoing debate surrounding Indonesia's free schools programme. The programme, launched in 2005, aimed to provide free education to all students, from primary to secondary level. However, the article suggests that the programme is now coming under scrutiny due to its high costs. Critics argue that the programme has become a financial burden on the government, with the costs escalating over the years. There are concerns that the funds allocated to the programme could be better utilized in other areas, such as improving the quality of education or addressing other pressing social issues. Proponents of the programme, on the other hand, argue that it has significantly increased school enrollment rates and provided educational opportunities to millions of children from low-income families. They believe that the long-term benefits of the programme, such as improving literacy and reducing social inequalities, outweigh the short-term financial challenges. The article highlights the complex and multifaceted nature of the debate, with both sides presenting valid arguments. It underscores the need for a balanced and comprehensive evaluation of the programme to ensure that it continues to serve the best interests of Indonesia's educational system and its citizens.