13-Year Compulsory Education: DPR Supports Government Plan, But Highlights Legal & Quality Concerns
Indonesia is moving towards a 13-year compulsory education system, encompassing Early Childhood Education (PAUD). The plan has garnered support from the House of Representatives (DPR), but concerns remain regarding legal frameworks and quality assurance.
Hetifah Sjaifudian, Chair of Commission X of the DPR, welcomed the initiative, emphasizing the importance of PAUD as a foundational pillar in education. Speaking at the Parliament Complex in Jakarta, she stated, “We warmly welcome this initiative, as early childhood education has been proven to be a key [foundation in education] as well.”
She stressed the crucial role of parental involvement alongside teachers and schools in early childhood development, advocating for greater emphasis on parental engagement during these formative years.
Legal Framework Needed
However, Hetifah pointed out a critical gap: the absence of a legal framework supporting 13-year compulsory education. The current national education law, Law Number 20 of 2003, does not include PAUD, reflecting a lack of awareness regarding its importance at the time of the law’s drafting.
This oversight has resulted in inadequate attention to the welfare and professional development of PAUD teachers. Hetifah stressed, “If the government intends to implement 13-year compulsory education, a legal framework is necessary to ensure the quality and accessibility of early childhood education.”
Expert Concerns & Next Steps
Education expert Ubaid Matraji from the National Coordinator of the Indonesian Education Monitoring Network expressed concerns about the ambitious nature of the 13-year plan, urging the government to prioritize improving the quality of existing basic education before expanding the mandatory education period. He argued that expanding without addressing quality concerns could exacerbate existing inequalities.
Commission X plans to meet with relevant ministries on November 6 to discuss education policy direction and the implementation of the 13-year education plan. This meeting will be crucial in addressing the concerns raised and ensuring a well-structured and effective implementation of this potentially transformative initiative.
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