Addressing Educational Inequality: Challenges for Schools in Rural and Urban Areas

Education is a crucial foundation for the advancement of a nation and is a fundamental right for every child. However, in Indonesia, there is still a striking disparity between education in rural and urban areas. Recent data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) in 2023 indicates that the graduation rate for students in rural areas is only 68%, while in urban areas it reaches 88%.

In a report published by Kompas, Puan Maharani, the Chair of the House of Representatives (DPR), emphasized that educational inequality is a serious challenge. Many high-quality schools are located in major cities, while rural areas still face a lack of adequate educational facilities. "Many high-quality schools are situated in large cities, while rural areas still experience limitations in educational facilities, leading to disparities in educational quality," Puan stated in a press release on May 2, 2024.

One of the main factors contributing to this educational gap is the limited access to schools. Many children in remote areas struggle to obtain a decent education due to the long distances to educational institutions. Additionally, economic conditions often force children to drop out of school because their parents cannot afford educational expenses.

Furthermore, the lack of qualified teaching staff significantly affects the low quality of education in these areas. Without sufficient teachers, students miss the opportunity to receive a quality education, which can impact their future prospects. Many regions do not have adequate budgets to provide necessary educational facilities, and poor infrastructure, including access roads and transportation, exacerbates these conditions.

To address these challenges, concrete steps are essential. The government must increase the budget for developing educational infrastructure in remote areas, including providing basic facilities and technology. Ongoing training programs for teachers in rural areas should also be expanded to ensure they possess the necessary competencies. Utilizing technology for remote learning can be one solution, allowing students in rural areas to access quality educational materials. Additionally, collaboration with non-governmental organizations is vital to provide additional support, such as scholarships and skill training programs.

Addressing the educational gap between rural and urban areas is crucial for creating a better future for all children in Indonesia. Through collective action and commitment from the government, society, and non-governmental organizations, we can ensure that every child has access to quality education. Equitable education is the foundation for building a more balanced, competitive society capable of breaking the cycle of poverty. Therefore, understanding and addressing the factors causing educational inequality is essential. Cooperation among all parties is necessary so that every child, regardless of background, can receive a proper education.