South Jakarta school building collapses, hundreds of students displaced for two years

A state elementary school in South Jakarta, SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 09, has been left in ruins for two years following a partial collapse, forcing hundreds of students to seek temporary shelter in a neighboring school. The incident, which occurred during a local election holiday on November 27, 2024, left five rooms severely damaged, including four classrooms and a school health unit.

“

Initially, it happened during the election holiday. So no one knew, not even the school guard. Only the surrounding residents knew initially in the morning around 06:30 WIB. No wind, no rain, suddenly it collapsed.

Parents recount that the collapse happened suddenly, without any apparent cause like strong winds or heavy rain. The lack of immediate action or clear communication from school authorities has caused significant distress. "From the school, they have followed up, reported to the department, already reported. But until now there has been no certainty of follow-up," said one parent, Evi Afrida, citing Antara news.

“

From the school, they have followed up, reported to the department, already reported. But until now there has been no certainty of follow-up.

The prolonged abandonment of the school building has disrupted the students' education. Around 200 students are now attending classes in the afternoon at SDN Kebayoran Lama Selatan 11, leading to an uncomfortable learning environment. Furthermore, the disruption has impacted extracurricular activities, with children unable to attend their usual religious studies sessions for the past two years.

“

Yes, if the first time we met, their budget was being diverted to other things first, other schools first because there were schools that were more important, they said.

Parents have repeatedly appealed to the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government for assistance in rebuilding the school. They received explanations in 2025 that budget allocations had been redirected to other schools deemed more urgent. The uncertainty surrounding the repairs continues to be a major concern for the affected families, who hope for a safe and conducive learning environment for their children.

“

Because we are temporarily housed, school is in the afternoon, so the children are probably less comfortable, as we are guests, you know. So the children are less free.