Covid-19 impact in Indonesia's education sector: Challenges and strategy

Abstract

The spread of the Novel Coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) disrupts the nost critical aspects of human life, including education. For instance, most learning institutions have been forced to temporarily close and implement the Learning from Home system (LFH). According to UNESCO, 1.7 billion children from 191 countries felt the effects of this temporary shutdown. These institutions respond to this situation differently, depending on choices available to students, teachers, and parents, as well as material and human resources. Most policies use innovative digital and cellular technology combined with traditional technology, radio, and TV to offer continuous education. Depending on distance and technological facilities, such as internet and Wi-Fi, LFH increases the access gap in gaining a quality education. This article analyzes the impact of COVID-19 on the education system in Indonesia. It examines the opportunities and challenges presented by the pandemic in the education system technology. The pandemic seriously affects student learning and welfare. It widens the gap between fortunate and less fortunate students in accessing quality education. Furthermore, Indonesia has formulated several long-term policies related to ICT and education. However, challenges experienced increased after the advent of COVID-19 because of the gradual implementation strategy and the inability to implement the policy. This article provides a further discussion on challenges and potential management strategies.