Tangsel Rethinks Free Education: What MK Ruling Means for Private Schools

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TANGERANG - The Tangerang Selatan (Tangsel) City Government is currently evaluating the Constitutional Court's (MK) decision mandating free nine-year basic education, encompassing both public and private institutions. This careful assessment aims to ensure that the allocated budget for this free education program is precisely targeted and effectively utilized.

Waiting for Ministerial Guidance

"We must await further directives. After the MK's decision, the derivative regulations will come from the Ministry of Home Affairs," stated Tangsel Deputy Mayor Pilar Saga Ichsan on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. "We are anticipating the implementing regulations and technical guidelines, as well as the Minister of Home Affairs' regulation, to ensure that our policies and programs, particularly regarding budget allocation, are accurate and achieve their intended goals."

Tangsel's Existing Free School Program

Pilar elaborated that Tangsel currently has hundreds of private elementary and junior high schools. He noted that a free school program for private institutions in the region has, in fact, been operational for several years.

"Actually, Tangsel already had this program in place, allowing children facing zoning constraints to attend private schools," he explained. "We have partnered with 90 private schools, covering their costs through the Tangerang Selatan City Regional Budget."

Further Discussions Post-Eid al-Adha

The Tangsel City Government is conducting in-depth discussions with relevant agencies to determine the exact number of private schools that will be included in the expanded program.

"After Eid al-Adha, we will hold discussions while awaiting guidance from the Minister of Home Affairs," Pilar confirmed. "The key is to assess the number of students who are currently not accommodated, to decide whether all or only a portion of the schools will be included."

Author: Fuad Hasan

Editor: Ibrahim