Admission of New Students Raises Population of Surabaya

Surabaya, E Java (Antara) - The admission of fresh students at junior and senior high schools in Surabaya this year has increased the city's population. The population has increased along with rising applications for the city's residence cards, Chief of the Surabaya City Demographic and Vital Statistic Office Suharto Wardojo said on Monday. "The applications from newcomers to become Surabaya residents during the admission of fresh junior and senior students have increased. They want to become Surabaya residents in order to attend school," he said. Suharto said the office will process the applications if they meet the requirements. "We do not have the right to impose a ban in the absence of rules," he said. Chief of the Education Commission of the Surabaya City Legislative Council Baktiono said online system and free education had attracted non-Surabaya students to attend school in the city. "New students of all state schools, ranging from elementary to senior high schools including vocational schools, are exempt from paying any kind of fees, including school contribution, registration fees, and tuition fees," he said. In addition, Surabaya has many good-quality schools that are equipped with adequate learning facilities, he said. Head of the Surabaya City Education Office Ikhsan said schools in the city are earmarked for local residents. Only Surabaya residents can attend schools in the city. "Those who are not Surabaya residents are subject to quota system for admission," he said. (*) Reported by Abdul Hakim