BLITAR – The number of out-of-school children in Blitar has dropped sharply, with officials reporting only 27 confirmed cases after a year-long verification process. The city government now aims to reach zero ATS (Anak Tidak Sekolah) by expanding access to education.

Blitar’s Education Office (Dispendik) initially received data showing 1,005 out-of-school individuals from the central government in late 2024. However, field verification throughout 2025 significantly revised that figure. Officials found that more than 900 cases no longer qualified as ATS.

Head of Dispendik, Dindin Alinurdin, said most of the removed cases involved students who had already graduated, moved away, or passed away. “From the initial 1,005 data points, more than 900 are no longer categorized as ATS. We are now verifying the remaining 104 cases,” he said.

After the verification process, authorities confirmed that only 27 individuals truly remain out of school in Blitar. The findings reflect more accurate data collection and closer coordination between local agencies.

Officials identified economic hardship and disabilities as the main barriers preventing children from accessing education. As a result, the government has focused on targeted interventions for these groups.

“So far, nearly half of the 27 individuals have joined community learning centers (PKBM) for equivalency education,” Dindin said. “The rest still face challenges, mainly due to disability-related conditions.”

The ATS category includes school-age children between 7 and 18, as well as adults who have not completed basic education. Authorities classify cases into three groups: those who never attended school, those who dropped out, and those who did not continue to the next level after graduation.

To address the issue, the Blitar city government has strengthened its commitment to inclusive education. It provides financial assistance for students in public, private, and non-formal schools, including equivalency programs.

“We ensure that all school-age residents can access education without financial barriers,” Dindin said. “Our goal is to make sure no one is left behind.”

With improved data accuracy and targeted support, Blitar is moving closer to eliminating out-of-school cases and ensuring universal access to basic education.