KETERBATASAN AKSES PENDIDIKAN MASYARAKAT DI DESA KLITIH KECAMATAN PLANDAAN KAB. JOMBANG (Studi di Desa Klitih Kec. Plandaan Kab. Jombang Jawa Timur)

Education is a fundamental right of every citizen and serves as a key component in the development of human resources. However, the reality on the ground reveals that access to education remains unequal, particularly in rural and remote areas. One such example is Klitih Village, located in Plandaan District, Jombang Regency, which faces a variety of challenges in providing educational services. This study aims to identify the factors contributing to limited access to education and the resulting social impacts on the local community. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed, using purposive sampling to select research subjects. Data collection methods included observation, interviews, and documentation. The findings indicate that the limited access to education in Klitih Village stems from three main factors: (1) economic constraints that hinder parents from financing their children's education; (2) inadequate educational infrastructure and facilities, including poor road access, insufficient classrooms, and lack of transportation; and (3) a social environment with low awareness and support regarding the importance of education. These limitations have significant social impacts on the community, such as: (1) reinforcing a cycle of intergenerational poverty; (2) creating substantial challenges in community development and governance due to low human resource quality; and (3) widening the social gap between the educated and those without adequate educational access. This study concludes that serious attention is needed from both the government and society to expand educational access and raise awareness about the importance of education for rural development. By doing so, it is expected that the quality of life and social welfare of the residents of Klitih Village can be improved.