Distance Learning Seen as Appropriate Measure to Protect Students from Volcanic Ash

Jakarta City Council (DPRD) Commission E member Farah Savira believes that implementing distance learning (PJJ) is the right move to protect students from exposure to volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau.

Because we don't yet know how severe the exposure will be or how long it will last

According to Farah, the policy is necessary because the level of volcanic ash exposure and the duration of the eruption's impact remain uncertain. Therefore, the safety and health of students must be prioritized before face-to-face learning resumes.

Jakarta Provincial Government Anticipates the Impact of Volcanic Ash from Mount Anak Krakatau

"Implementing distance learning is the right move because we don't yet know how severe the exposure will be or how long it will last," she said on Tuesday (9/8).

Farah noted that the distance learning policy could be extended if the eruption and volcanic ash exposure remain unsafe for face-to-face learning to resume.

She estimated that distance learning could remain in place for up to a week while the Jakarta Provincial Government monitors Mount Anak Krakatau's activity and awaits the latest information from the central government.

"If distance learning is still implemented tomorrow, it will likely continue for up to a week while we monitor developments and await updates from the central government on Mount Anak Krakatau's activity," she added.

However, Farah hopes activity at Mount Anak Krakatau will soon subside so face-to-face learning can safely resume.

Farah also praised Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung for continuing to provide the public with the latest information on the condition of Mount Anak Krakatau following the eruption. She also said healthcare facilities in Jakarta are relatively well prepared to deal with the impact of the eruption, given their experience in handling emergency situations.

The Jakarta Provincial Government has extended distance learning for all students from early childhood education (PAUD) through senior high school through Tuesday (9/8) as a precaution against continued volcanic ash exposure in several areas.

The extension was formalized through a circular issued by the Jakarta Education Agency head. The policy applies only to teaching and learning activities, while Jakarta civil servants (ASN) continue to work from offices as usual without working from home (WFH).