Bengkulu City Government Bans Schools From Selling Uniforms, Opens Student Guardian Complaints Channel

BENGKULU - The Bengkulu City Government (Pemkot) has tightened supervision of all Elementary Schools (SD) and Junior High Schools (SMP) to ensure that no school sells uniforms to students for profit.

"We continue to supervise schools, this is in accordance with the instructions of the Acting Mayor of Bengkulu. Schools are not allowed to sell uniforms, but can facilitate or help, as long as it is in accordance with the provisions," said Acting Head of the Bengkulu City Education and Culture Office, Ilham Putra, in Bengkulu, Antara, Wednesday, July 9.

According to Ilham, this supervision refers to Articles 181 and 198 of PP Number 17 of 2010 concerning the management and implementation of education.

The regulation is also strengthened by Permendikbud Number 50 of 2022 concerning school uniforms for new elementary and junior high school students, who say that the procurement of uniforms is the responsibility of the parents of students.

"With this regulation, we can prevent potential corruption or illegal levies under the guise of uniforms that actually burden students' parents," said Ilham.

The Education and Culture Office has also opened a complaint channel for people who find uniform sales practices by schools, or indications of other unofficial levies.

"We ask the public and guardians of students not to hesitate to report if they find such practices," said Ilham.

Furthermore, he invited all parties, including the school committee and society to maintain morals and ethics in the educational environment.

"With collaboration between schools, parents, and the community, we can maintain the integrity of the world of education in Bengkulu so that it remains qualified and dignified," he said.