Education for All? A Review of the Implementation of Indonesia’s 12-Year Compulsory Education Policy

Abstract

This paper reviews the implementation of Indonesia’s 12-year compulsory education policy, which aims to ensure that all children, regardless of socio-economic background, receive at least 12 years of education. While the policy has led to significant improvements in enrollment rates, particularly in remote areas, challenges remain in its full realization. Using a combination of statistical analysis and interviews with government officials, educators, and families, the paper assesses the barriers to achieving universal access to education, including financial constraints, insufficient infrastructure, and regional disparities. The findings suggest that while the policy has expanded access, educational quality and retention rates remain uneven, especially in rural and impoverished areas. The research highlights the need for targeted interventions to support at-risk students and ensure that education is not only accessible but also of high quality. The paper concludes by proposing enhancements to the policy, including increased government investment in school infrastructure, teacher professional development, and the creation of support mechanisms for economically disadvantaged families.