The free private school program has officially been introduced by the Jakarta Provincial Government for the public.

Through this policy, private schools ranging from elementary, middle, high, vocational, and special needs schools (SLB) can provide free education with financial assistance from the Jakarta Provincial Government.

This year, 103 private schools spread across five administrative city areas are part of the program.

Secretary of Commission C of the Jakarta City Council, Justin Adrian, invited all parties to monitor and ensure the success of this program.

"We hope that the free school program is truly free, without any further charges," he said, Friday (5/1).

Justin also encouraged the public not to hesitate to report any illegal levies, either through the City Council or other complaint channels.

He emphasized the importance of monitoring the free private school program to ensure its optimal implementation. He stated that the Jakarta Provincial Government has sufficient resources to ensure the program is running according to regulations.

"The Education Agency must actively carry out supervision," he added.

Regarding sanctions against violating private schools, Commission E has left the matter entirely to the Education Agency. However, he confirmed that the agency will issue warnings and conduct evaluations of problematic schools.

The City Council is also pushing for an expansion of the number of schools participating in the free school program. Commission E, Justin continued, proposed increasing the number to around 200 schools.

According to him, the free private school program is crucial for meeting the educational needs. The current capacity of state schools is estimated to only accommodate around 40 to 60 percent of the total need.

"This collaboration is important so that the community's educational needs continue to be met," he stated.