A Qualitative Study of Conditional Cash Transfer and Education Aspirations: Evidence from Yogyakarta

Abstract

Since 2007, conditional cash transfer (CCT) programs have been implemented to improve human capital of the children from poor families in Indonesia. Although there is extensive evidence that CCT affects educational improvements of the children, little has been known whether these arise from monetary incentives or the conditions change parents’ aspiration for their children’ education. This study aims to explore perspectives of the CCT programs beneficiaries in Yogyakarta Province regarding educational aspiration for their children. The data collection is based on qualitative approach through semi-structured in-depth interviews using Capability, Opportunity, Motivation and Behavior (COM-B) Model. We observed that the CCT programs have provided the opportunity for the beneficiaries to invest in their children’s education. This works not only through the monetary transfer but also regular report and monitoring from facilitators and sanction of program termination. However, reinforcing parents’ aspiration through CCT programs is necessary but not sufficient.