Total Budget For Free Private School Programs In Jakarta Capai IDR 2.3 Trillion

Deputy Chairperson of the DKI Jakarta Provincial DPRD, Ima Mahdiah, said that the total budget needed for the free private school program, which is planned to start in July 2025, is IDR 2.3 trillion.

"That (free private school budget) is IDR 1.6 (trillion)," said Ima as quoted by ANTARA, Thursday, November 7.

But, he said, there was an additional IDR 700 billion for assistance in the form of uniforms and books.

"But it must be used for uniforms and school tools. So we prioritize school needs," he said.

Ima said that the Jakarta Smart Card (KJP) was misused by many students' parents. For example, to pay motorcycle installments or for other things outside the school needs of students.

Therefore, the mechanism for providing assistance for underprivileged students will continue to be evaluated so that the same thing does not continue to happen.

"Immediately paid (student assistance). Only the mechanism is still being evaluated. But if I suggest, stick to the card, the money is allocated," he said.

According to him, the provision of assistance will be monitored. If suddenly at the ATM the transaction is used for others, it should be a signal," he said.

Previously, Acting Head of the DKI Jakarta Education Office (Disdik) Purwosusilo explained that the free private school program not only finances Education Development Donations (SPP) but also the personal needs of students.

"Financing by the government for children attending private schools consists of tuition fees, base money or money at the beginning of entering certain levels," he said.

Then the cost of learning activities according to certain rates based on the results of the study.

"Then the fulfillment of basic education for students is in the form of uniforms, shoes, bags and written instruments needed," said Purwosusilo.