This documentary tells the real-life stories of three families raising children with special needs (ABK) in Banten Province, one of the regions with the highest number of special needs children in Indonesia. With over 9,500 children recorded, Banten faces significant challenges in providing inclusive education. Of the 121 Special Schools in the province, only seven are built by the government, while the rest are privately run, often with tuition fees far beyond the reach of most families.
Through the perspectives of parents from different economic backgrounds, the film reveals a stark contrast in educational access. One family can afford the best school with full facilities, while another struggles to secure a spot in the few available public schools. There are also those confronted with the harsh reality that special education for their child is an unattainable luxury.
More than just a story about education, this film explores the emotional struggles, sacrifices, and hopes of parents who must face social stigma, a shortage of Special Education teachers, and the limitations of current policies. From simple routines like taking their child to school, to the uphill battle of finding psychological support, each story delivers a message of unconditional love and resilience. With a humanistic approach, this documentary invites audiences to understand that proper education for children with special needs is not a privilege, but a fundamental right that should be equally accessible to every child in this country.
This work was collaboratively published by KompasTV.