Introduction
In a significant shift for education in West Java, Governor Dedi Mulyadi has mandated that all schools commence classes at 06:30 a.m. starting from the 2025/2026 academic year. This decision has sparked a wave of reactions from parents, particularly in Bandung, who are concerned about the implications for morning traffic and their daily routines.
The New Mandate: What You Need to Know
Under West Java Governor’s Circular No: 58/PK.03/Disdik, all educational institutions, from early childhood education (PAUD) to senior high schools, are required to start classes uniformly at 06:30 a.m. This new schedule applies to general schools, Islamic schools (madrasah), and special education institutions, with classes held Monday to Friday. The daily learning durations will range from 2 to 11 hours, depending on the educational level.
Parents’ Concerns: Traffic and Timing
Many parents, like Anne Rufaidah, are worried about the potential for increased traffic congestion. Anne, a resident of Bandung, has been accustomed to dropping off her two children at different schools with staggered start times. Previously, she would leave home at 06:00 a.m. to drop her youngest at elementary school by 06:20 a.m. and then head to her eldest’s junior high school, which starts at 06:45 a.m.
“It’s usually smooth, but I don’t know how it’ll be if everyone starts at 06:30 a.m.,” Anne expressed her concerns.
A Mixed Bag of Reactions
While some parents are apprehensive, others, like Iman, believe the new start time won’t significantly impact their routines. Iman drives his children to nearby schools, strategically chosen to avoid traffic.
“Maybe it’ll be a problem for those who have to travel far or through congested areas,” he noted.
The Impact on Daily Routines
Education activist Iwan Hermawan from the Forum Aksi Guru Independen (FAGI) highlighted that school start times are closely linked to parents’ daily schedules. Many parents drop their kids off on their way to work, and the new start time may necessitate adjustments in their departure times.
“So it’s likely there will be traffic early in the morning,” Iwan stated, suggesting that local governments should consider providing transportation for students to alleviate congestion.
Historical Context: Governor Dedi Mulyadi’s Vision
Governor Dedi Mulyadi’s push for an earlier school start time is not new. He previously proposed that school activities begin at 06:00 a.m., a policy he successfully implemented during his tenure as Regent of Purwakarta. His vision aims to standardize school hours across the province, ensuring that all students have a consistent start to their day.
The Broader Implications of the New Schedule
The decision to standardize school start times is part of a broader educational reform strategy in West Java. By aligning school hours, the government aims to create a more structured environment for students. However, this move has raised questions about its feasibility, especially concerning traffic management and parental convenience.
Conclusion: A Step Forward or a Step Back?
As West Java prepares to implement this new school start time, the community remains divided. While the intention behind the mandate is to create uniformity in education, the potential for increased traffic congestion and the impact on parents’ daily routines cannot be overlooked.
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