Ms. Schwank, what are your key research findings and what is the background of education in Indonesia?
Hanna Schwank: This is the first study in the Indonesian context that shows a causal relationship between the average educational attainment in a district and the probability that children who have migrated from other parts of the country successfully complete school. Over time, the level of education achieved by migrants’ children approaches that of local children. After about five years, the gap has narrowed by around 10 per cent.
In general, the level of education in Indonesia has improved significantly – also thanks to one of the world’s largest school-building programmes. However, the literacy rate in urban settings is still higher in all age groups than in rural areas.
Traditionally, many people in Indonesia leave their home region in search of new opportunities, for example in the labour market. The prospects of future generations also play a role. Information on educational opportunities in different districts can enhance the decision-making of migrant households.
Which children benefit most from internal migration?
Hanna Schwank: The study shows that children from less educated families benefit most from moving to districts with higher levels of education. The longer they live in their new destination, the more likely they are to complete primary and secondary school successfully.
How did you compare the level of education in different districts?
Hanna Schwank: I determined the educational quality of the district based on the average level of education of the local school children.
What data is your study based on?
Hanna Schwank: The study is based on comprehensive data from the Indonesian Population Census from 2000 and 2010. The information on siblings’ year and place of birth can be used to infer the exact timing of family migration. This new approach makes it possible to also use data that do not contain any explicit information on internal migration.
To what extent are your research results also relevant for other countries?
Hanna Schwank: The study shows that choosing a migration destination with a high quality of education promotes children’s success at school. This is relevant in countries with significant regional disparities in educational resources and opportunities, especially in developing contexts.