The recent allegation of extortion by a rogue NGO against the Director of RS Abdul Moeloek Lampung is only a small reflection of a much larger phenomenon. Similar practices have become increasingly common in the education sector.
Many school principals report being approached by certain individuals claiming to represent NGOs. With classic pretexts—ranging from asking for “fuel money,” repairing a flat tire, covering hospital bills, childbirth expenses, family celebrations, or even unpaid electricity bills—these individuals make persistent demands. When the requests are denied, subtle threats soon follow: “this will be reported” or “we will expose it to the media.”
This situation leaves school principals in a difficult position. On one hand, they wish to protect the reputation of their schools, maintain harmony among teachers, and safeguard their careers. On the other hand, the psychological pressure of potential negative publicity pushes them toward pragmatic compromises: paying off the extortion to avoid trouble. Sadly, such concessions only create a vicious cycle that perpetuates the practice.
The Principals’ Perspective
School principals must stand firm against extortion. Excessive fear only weakens their bargaining position. A concrete solution is to prioritize transparency in school administration, including the management of government funds and community contributions. With open accountability, threats of “bad publicity” lose their power, as all financial data can be justified. Furthermore, principals must not hesitate to report clear cases of extortion to law enforcement agencies.
The Education Office’s Responsibility
The role of the education office is equally crucial. Officials cannot simply turn a blind eye. They must serve as a shield for school leaders, ensuring that principals are not left to face these threats alone. Clear complaint mechanisms should be established, in collaboration with law enforcement, accompanied by regular guidance sessions to encourage principals not to be intimidated by threats disguised as “journalism” or “social control.” Strong institutional protection will prevent schools from becoming isolated targets.
The Role of NGOs
NGOs, in their true essence, are meant to serve as critical partners to both government and society. Their noble mission is to promote transparency, accountability, and justice. However, when certain individuals misuse this role as a tool for extortion, the reputation of civil society organizations as a whole is tarnished. These rogue actors must be dealt with firmly, as they undermine the credibility of a movement that should be based on integrity and constructive advocacy.
Conclusion
The growing prevalence of extortion in schools reveals a serious misuse of social oversight. School principals must strengthen transparency and resist pressure, education officials must provide firm protection, and NGOs must return to their true role: serving as society’s watchdogs, not its predators.
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