West Java Governor Apologizes as Public School Shortage Sparks Parental Anger

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has apologized to the public, acknowledging the government's failure to provide enough public school spots for all students seeking admission. The apology comes amid widespread parental frustration and anger, highlighted by a viral video of a parent expressing outrage at the provincial education office after their child was denied a place in a public school.

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I apologize to the community. If today many parents are disappointed because their children did not get into a public school, that is our responsibility as state organizers.

"I apologize to the community. If today many parents are disappointed because their children did not get into a public school, that is our responsibility as state organizers," Mulyadi stated Thursday. He explained that the current system, known as the New Student Candidate Mapping (PCMB) 2026, has seen students' rankings drop due to increased competition, including from those who did not qualify for other schools.

Mulyadi emphasized that parental anger stems from a desire for their children to receive education in public schools. He stressed that the government must accept criticism and disappointment when public services do not meet the needs of all citizens. "If parents are angry, we must accept it. The important thing is that the government continues to strive to provide the best service," he said.

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If parents are angry, we must accept it. The important thing is that the government continues to strive to provide the best service.

The governor attributed the shortage of public school places and adequate teachers to the growing number of graduates seeking further education. He assured that all children would still have opportunities to attend school through private institutions, with the provincial government committing to cover tuition fees for students from low-income families. "For those who do not have the opportunity to enter public school, there are still private schools. For families who cannot afford it, the education costs will be borne by the West Java Provincial Government," he added.

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For those who do not have the opportunity to enter public school, there are still private schools. For families who cannot afford it, the education costs will be borne by the West Java Provincial Government.