Education administration in state high schools (SMA) in Metro City is currently under sharp public scrutiny. This spotlight was triggered by the emergence of a classic issue related to school uniform procurement, which is considered burdensome for parents, accompanied by allegations of monopolistic trade practices that obscure the school's function as an inclusive public service institution.
Based on gathered information, there is a significant price discrepancy for uniform packages between schools, even though all of them are state-owned and refer to the same regulations. The price of a uniform package ranges from IDR 1.5 million to IDR 1.9 million. This striking tariff difference raises big questions among parents regarding transparency and the standardization of uniform pricing in the region.
This condition is further worsened by the lack of options available to parents. They are positioned as passive consumers who must agree to predetermined prices without room for negotiation or alternative provider options. Complaints have also emerged regarding poor service, such as clothing sizes that do not match the orders. Without a return policy from the school, parents are forced to spend extra money to have the uniforms adjusted by external tailors.
In response to this troubling situation, pressure is now being directed at the Lampung Province Education and Culture Office and the Inspectorate. The competent authorities are urged to immediately step in and conduct a thorough audit of the uniform procurement system in Metro City State High Schools to prevent the utilization of educational institutions for unilateral commercial gain.
