The admission process for new junior high school (SMP) students in Sidenreng Rappang (Sidrap) Regency, South Sulawesi, has been marred by complaints from parents. Allegations have surfaced that school committees directed parents to purchase school uniforms from a specific designated store.
Several parents expressed their disappointment, arguing that the covert policy restricts their freedom of choice. In addition to the prices being relatively higher than general market rates, the quality of the uniform material provided by the referred store is also being questioned.
This situation has triggered public speculation regarding profit-sharing or commissions between rogue school officials and the store owner. However, these rumors still require further investigation as they are not yet supported by concrete evidence.
Responding to the controversy, the Head of the Primary Education Division at the Sidrap Regency Education and Culture Office, Musafir, denied any official instructions to monopolize uniform sales. He emphasized that his agency has never issued a policy designating a specific store as the sole provider for new students' needs.
To date, there are no details on which schools are allegedly engaging in this practice. The public is urging authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and evaluation to maintain transparency and prevent excessive financial burdens on parents in the new school year.
