Tina Toon Reveals There Are Charges At Jakarta's Free Private Schools

Illustration of school acryvities (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - Deputy Chairman of Commission E of the DKI DPRD, Agustina Hermanto or Tina Toon, revealed that there are levies in private schools that are included in the free private school program in Jakarta.

Tina revealed this based on reports from parents of students when the DPRD conducted socialization of the free private school program, which is currently in the testing phase in 40 schools.

"At that time, there were still those who complained, 'Mom, this is said to be a free private school, but we still have fees and costs'," Tina said when confirmed by VOI, Friday, September 26.

From the reports received, Tina revealed that parents were asked for levies of around Rp. 3 million to Rp. 5 million. Tina is worried that there are people who take advantage of illegal levies from this program.

"If there are people, even though the school is private, then it's already using the APBD, it's clear and so on, but there are still levies, which means extortion, illegal levies," he explained.

Therefore, Tina urged the DKI Jakarta Education Office to trace the findings of levies in private schools that are included in the free private school program.

Bearing in mind, this program is run with the aim that students from underprivileged families who are not accommodated in public schools can continue to receive education without being burdened with fees.

"Don't let it run until it's (official), it's like there are still levies that harm residents because," said Tina.

"This title is to help underprivileged citizens, who do not get public schools, cannot get KJP, can get free private schools. But if for example there are still levies, don't be like that," he continued.