PPDB Zoning System Controversy: Pursuing Dreams, Dreaming Success

Illustration of PPDB. (Antara)

Every year, the moment of New Student Acceptance (PPDB) always leaves a diverse controversial story. The initial purpose of this system is to provide fair and equitable opportunities for prospective students. But in reality? This system should bring hope, but now it becomes a mess and drawing protests.

The concept of the zoning system in PPDB is indeed aimed at equitable education. However, what is the implementation as expected?

The DPR proposes to combine the zoning system with report cards, NEM. It seems like a smart solution to choose students based on potential and achievements. But remember the past when there are prospective students who are burdened with pressure. The question is, how are their happiness and opportunities to pursue their dreams?

Before zoning, the drama of wild levies rampant and disturbing prospective students and parents. Expectations of change towards equality and justice. It was not that easy.

Controversy is widening with protests from various parties. The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Puan Maharani, encourage the evaluation of the zoning system and equitable number of schools. However, there are still deficiencies that must be overcome. Is it true that evenly distributed throughout the region? Several regional heads criticized the implementation of the zoning system, such as in Bogor. The Mayor of Bogor, Bima Arya, said the manipulation of population data to be accepted at selected schools. Therefore, Bima Arya asked the Minister of Education and Culture, Nadiem Makarim, evaluating the PPDB zoning system.

Harsh criticism from parents of students in Depok. Zoning system has a lot of cellery. Starting from address validation to technology. Men who are literate in technology questioning distance measurements on Google Maps. According to him, technology on Google Maps can be fooled. Personal data problems are also a serious concern.

The PPDB Task Force was formed to monitor the possibility of fraud in the zoning system. However, why is there still a repeated chaos? Maybe it's better if the Minister of Education and Culture, Nadiem Makarim is immediately called by the DPR, the issue of PPDB cannot be ignored.

Of course, that does not mean there is no success in the PPDB system. Some cities have found ways to overcome problems in the zoning system, such as Surabaya, agree to evaluate and try to achieve success.

Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo Builds a Vocational School in 17 Districts, trying to find answers to the problem of the zoning system.

Bali showed its commitment to prevent school castanization, claims no students were entrusted to go there. But keep in mind that some schools outside of zoning are still opening a study group and PPDB. Does this happen because not all students have the same opportunity?

PPDB has hope and challenges for prospective students, parents, and government. Every Indonesian child has a dream of getting decent and equitable education. The success of the PPDB system is the goal of all parties to achieve better education.

Face the controversy of PPDB with all its complexity. Protests and criticisms must be respected, efforts to improve the system. Let's look for a bright side and success in this system. Together to realize equivalent and quality education, so that Indonesian children dream big and achieve true success. Spirit!