Dinamika Kesenjangan Pendidikan di Sulawesi Selatan 2019-2024 dari Perspektif Lama Sekolah

Abstract

This study analyzes the dynamics of educational disparities in South Sulawesi Province during the 2019–2024 period by focusing on the Average Years of Schooling (AYS) as a fundamental indicator of educational attainment. Using a descriptive–comparative quantitative approach enriched with spatial analysis, this research examines 24 districts/cities to identify inequality patterns and the multidimensional factors influencing them. Data were obtained from publications of the Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) and supporting documents related to social, economic, infrastructural, and digital variables. The findings reveal significant disparities in AYS between urban and rural areas. Makassar City consistently recorded the highest AYS (11.57 years in 2024), supported by adequate educational infrastructure, a relatively high standard of living, and strong digital penetration. In contrast, Jeneponto Regency recorded the lowest AYS (7.01 years in 2024), influenced by high poverty levels, poor road infrastructure, a low ratio of secondary schools, and limited internet access that reaches only 27% of households. Regression analysis indicates that variations in AYS are significantly influenced by school ratios, poverty levels, and digital access. Meanwhile, spatial autocorrelation analysis (Moran’s I) identified clustering of low-AYS regions in the southern–central areas of the province, indicating that inequality is systemic rather than random. These findings affirm that educational disparities in South Sulawesi are structural phenomena requiring place-based policy interventions integrated with economic development, physical infrastructure improvement, digital equalization, and strengthened educational services. This study provides strategic implications for local governments in designing more adaptive and sustainable interventions to reduce regional educational disparities.