Gibran Asks The Minister Of Education To Remove The Zoning Path In PPDB, Commission X DPR Disagrees

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka while reviewing the free nutritious trial at SMK Negeri 3 Tangerang City, Thursday. ANTARA/HO-City Government Tangerang

JAKARTA - Chairman of Commission X DPR RI, Hetifah Sjaifudian disagreed with the direction of the Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia Gibran Rakabuming Raka who asked the Minister of Basic and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti to remove the zoning route in the New Student Admission System (PPDB).

According to him, zoning for students can reduce school quality inequality to prevent discrimination. Although he admits, this zoning policy still faces challenges in implementing it.

"Such as the unpreparedness of educational facilities in various areas and the inequality of quality between schools," said Hetifah, Friday, November 22.

Hetifah assessed that there needed to be steps that must be taken before removing the zoning PPDB. One of them is by discussing or hearing public opinion and stakeholders.

"Hearing public opinion and stakeholders, by inviting stakeholders, including the Minister of Education and Culture, education agencies, teachers, student parents, and education observers, to discuss the effectiveness of zoning and community complaints. Reviewing the impact of zoning, such as conducting an in-depth evaluation regarding the positive and negative impacts of the zoning system since it was implemented," he explained.

Hetifah also assessed that there needs to be another alternative that is fairer if you really want to remove PPDB zoning. "Such as a value-based selection (PPDB achievement path is strengthened) or with an additional affirmation quota for students from underprivileged families (enlarge the portion of PPDB affirmation path)," he said.

The Golkar legislator for the East Kalimantan electoral district also encouraged an increase in quality first. According to him, the trigger did not run smoothly in the zoning PPDB because the quality of education was uneven.

"It encourages an increase in the quality of education evenly. The main problem that triggers criticism of zoning is inequality between schools. Related to this, Commission X urges the government to accelerate the equitable distribution of educational facilities and infrastructure," he said.

In addition, Hetifah also encourages the involvement of private schools. According to him, the role of private schools can be an alternative for students outside the zoning by opening access to education for all groups.

"Student schools can participate in affirmation programs by providing scholarships or subsidies for students from underprivileged families. The government needs to establish partnerships with private schools to design incentive policies, such as subsidies for education costs or operational assistance, so that private schools are more affordable for the community," he said.

"Student schools also need to be involved in strategic planning for regional education to complement the capacity of public schools. However, the Government must ensure regulations support synergies between public and private schools, including providing incentives to private schools that contribute to equitable education. With synergies between private schools, public schools, and the government, the national education system, including zoning PPDB, can be more effective and inclusive," he continued.

Therefore, Hetifah hopes that zoning will not be removed other than a good solution. An urgent step, according to him, is to ensure that education policies continue to uphold the principles of justice, accessibility, and improving the quality of education.

"Zonasi tidak seharusnya dihapus segera tanpa solusi yang lebih baik," pungkasnya.

Previously, Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka asked the Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu'ti, to abolish the zoning system in the acceptance of new students (PPDB).

Gibran made this request when giving a speech at the opening ceremony of Tanwir I of the Muhammadiyah Youth Central Management (PP).

"I expressly convey to the Minister of Education, 'Sir, this zoning must be eliminated'," said Gibran in Jakarta, Thursday, November 21.

In addition, Gibran also asked the heads of the education office to prioritize digital education in Indonesia. According to him, digital-based education is a key factor in welcoming Indonesia Gold 2045.

Gibran emphasized the importance of introducing coding or programming as subjects from an early age for students.

"We must not be left behind from other countries and this will be able to follow young people. So don't miss it," he said.