Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — In a recent event, Jusuf Kalla (JK), the former Vice President of Indonesia, expressed strong opposition to the proposed cuts in mandatory spending for education, which he argued should be set at 20% of the state budget (APBN).
JK emphasized that failing to meet this constitutional mandate could lead to serious political consequences for the government.
During the launch of his book, “Menegakkan Amanat Konstitusi Pendidikan” (Upholding the Constitutional Mandate of Education), JK pointed out that Indonesia, along with Taiwan and Brazil, is one of the few countries that enshrines a specific education funding requirement in its constitution. “
If the government does not meet the 20% requirement, it risks falling. This figure is embedded in our constitution,” he stated, highlighting the unique nature of Indonesia’s commitment to education funding.
JK stressed the importance of collective effort in implementing the education budget effectively. He pointed out that the 20% allocation might not suffice if all aspects of education are included under mandatory spending.
“There is a tendency to include every educational aspect under that 20%. That won’t be enough,” he warned, advocating for a more comprehensive approach to educational funding.
In contrast, Indonesia’s Minister of Finance, Sri Mulyani Indrawati, announced that the education budget for 2025 is set at Rp 722.6 trillion, an increase from the previous year’s Rp 665 trillion. This budget aims to enhance educational access and quality through various programs, including the Indonesia Smart Program (PIP) and the School Operational Assistance (BOS).
Moreover, a new initiative for providing nutritious meals to students has been introduced, reflecting President Prabowo Subianto’s priorities.
Sri Mulyani noted that the budget also allocates Rp 20.3 trillion for revitalizing school infrastructure, addressing the need to repair deteriorating buildings.
“This is a top priority for the new administration,” she stated, emphasizing the commitment to improving educational facilities.
Eastern Indonesia Lead in Poverty Rates, Papua Tops the List
As Indonesia navigates its educational policies, the tension between constitutional obligations and budgetary constraints remains a crucial issue, with key figures like JK advocating for the protection of educational funding as a fundamental right.
(Becky)
