THE REALITY OF CHILDREN’S EDUCATION ON KAUNG ISLAND, SUMBAWA: A QUALITATIVE STUDY OF POTENTIALS, CHALLENGES, AND EDUCATIONAL DISPARITIES

Educational equity remains a challenge in archipelagic areas, where geographical isolation and limited access to learning resources may affect students’ learning experiences and competency development. This is evident in Pulau Kaung, Sumbawa Regency, where preliminary observations revealed that some upper-grade elementary school students still struggled with basic writing skills, despite the availability of qualified teachers and formal educational services. This gap between the expected educational competencies and students’ actual learning conditions motivated the present study. This study examines students' potential and the challenges they face in the educational process at Pulau Kaung Elementary School. A qualitative approach with a case study design was employed. The participants included the school principal, teachers, students, parents, and community leaders selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation. Data were analyzed through data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification, with data credibility established through source and technique triangulation. The findings indicate that students possess considerable educational potential, reflected in the continuation of formal education, the presence of academically achieving students, parental support, community concern, and improved internet access. However, this potential is constrained by low basic literacy skills among some students, limited learning support at home, inadequate learning facilities and instructional media, and financial limitations. The study contributes to a student-centered understanding of educational inequality in archipelagic areas and recommends strengthening collaboration among schools, families, communities, and government while expanding sustainable access to relevant learning resources.