Legislator Commends Equivalency Classes for School Dropouts

Jakarta Legislative Council Commission E Chairman M. Subki expressed appreciation for the Jakarta Education Agency’s efforts to widen access to alternative equivalency education for individuals who discontinued their schooling between the elementary and high schools.

This is an issue that must not be overlooked

According to him, the equivalency schooling program serves as a lifeline for school dropouts, offering them a second chance at learning while allowing them to earn recognized diplomas through non-formal tracks.

“This is an issue that must not be overlooked. The reality is that many of our children have not finished their schooling,” he expressed, Thursday (11/5).

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He singled out the West Jakarta Education Sub-agency’s program in Tamansari, where public school facilities are utilized for equivalency classes once standard school hours end.

He explained that participants spanned various age demographics, pointing to a 60-year-old resident who remained dedicated to continuing their schooling.

“These students study in public schools after hours. When the regular kids leave, the equivalency students take their place. There was even a 60-year-old enrolled at the time. I have tremendous respect for this program,” he explained.

Subki hoped that the city would keep expanding equivalency schooling to ensure more residents get the chance to finish their education.

Further, he stressed the need to strengthen character education by engaging parents, noting that Bylaw No. 5/2025 on Education Administration already codifies parental responsibilities in student learning.

He urged the agency to explore ways to roll out the rule on a wider scale, pointing out that character development hinges on strong cooperation between home and school.

“The growing demand for people with stronger character is becoming clearer every single day,” he noted.