West Java DPRD Warns of Potential Disparities in Maung Schools

Illustration- The building of the Bandung State High School 3 which is one of the flagship human school (Maung School) programs in Bandung City, West Java. ANTARA/HO-SMAN 5 Bandung

BANDUNG - Commission V of the West Java DPRD reminded the West Java Provincial Government (Jabar) regarding the potential for educational disparities in the Maung School (Outstanding Human) program.

Chairman of Commission V of the West Java DPRD Yomanius Untung said that the concept of Maung School initiated by West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi basically has a positive goal to produce students who are successful and able to compete at the national and international levels.

"Don't let this reinforce the caste of schools. The initiation of the International Standard School (RSBI) was considered the highest caste and other schools were below it. Don't let that happen again," said Yomanius as reported by ANTARA, Wednesday, May 20.

According to him, the concept of Maung School which opens the opportunity for cross-regional selection without zoning has the potential to create unhealthy competition between schools.

"His name is achievement, both academic, sports, art and religious achievements, so that they can be highlighted and prepared well to produce graduates who are able to compete," said Yomanius.

However, he assessed that students with special abilities and talents still need special education facilities so that they can compete internationally.

In addition to the academic track, he said, the Maung School program is also aimed at strengthening vocational education through the development of flagship vocational schools.

Yomanius emphasized that the quality of practical learning must be the main concern so that graduates are truly ready to enter the world of work.

In a discussion with the West Java Education Office, Yomanius said, there was even a discussion about the minimum requirement for a certain level of intelligence for prospective students.

"Anyone can enter as long as they are superior. Earlier, it was even said that the minimum IQ was 130, although it was still being studied," he said.