Author Information
Simon Sili Sabon, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), IndonesiaYendri Wirda, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Indonesia
Nur Listiawati, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Indonesia
Abstract
This study examines demand-side barriers that limit participation in Early Childhood Education (ECE) in Manokwari Regency, West Papua. Despite the strategic role of ECE in supporting child development, participation rates in this region remain relatively low compared to other provinces in Indonesia. The study employs a qualitative case study approach, with data collected through semi-structured interviews with parents, village heads, ECE teachers, and officials from the local Education Office. Thematic analysis reveals that low participation is shaped by the interaction of geographical, economic, cultural, and governance-related factors. Geographical barriers, including remoteness, limited infrastructure, and the uneven distribution of ECE centres, reduce children’s access to services. Economic barriers arise from both direct and indirect costs, further exacerbated by delays in the disbursement of School Operational Assistance (BOS) funds and the inconsistent utilization of Special Autonomy Funds (Otsus), although some villages have used these funds to provide incentives for ECE teachers. Cultural factors also play a significant role, including early marriage practices, grandparent-led caregiving patterns, and local beliefs that restrict children under the age of tree from leaving the house. This study concludes that improving ECE participation in Papua requires community-based and culturally sensitive approaches, supported by integrated fiscal policies. Policy implications include optimizing the use of Otsus funds for ECE operations, strengthening inter-village collaboration, enhancing the capacity of local teachers, and engaging traditional and religious leaders in promoting ECE as a shared community responsibility.
Paper Information
Conference: ACEID2026Stream: Educational policy
This paper is part of the ACEID2026 Conference Proceedings (View)
Full Paper
View / Download the full paper in a new tab/window
To cite this article:
Sabon S., Wirda Y., & Listiawati N. (2026) Why Children Stay Home? Uncovering Demand-Side Barriers to Early Childhood Education in Manokwari, West Papua ISSN: 2189-101X – The Asian Conference on Education & International Development 2026 Official Conference Proceedings (pp. 615-628) https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2189-101X.2026.50
To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2189-101X.2026.50
Comments
Powered by WP LinkPress