An Analysis of Opportunity and Challenge of Daycare Industries in Makassar City

Abstract

The daycare industry in Makassar has shown significant growth recently, driven by the
increasing number of dual-income households and changing patterns of early childhood
care. This study explores the opportunities and challenges faced by daycare businesses in
the city, focusing on operational, social, and market-related aspects. Opportunities
include the rising awareness among parents regarding early childhood education, growing
demand for flexible childcare services, and potential partnerships with corporations,
healthcare providers, and educational institutions. Additionally, the relatively limited
number of high-quality daycare centers in suburban areas offers room for expansion.
However, several challenges persist, such as high operational costs, a shortage of trained
caregivers, cultural preferences for family-based childcare, and competition from
informal providers offering lower prices. The study highlights the importance of adopting
innovative solutions, including technology-enabled monitoring systems, diversified
service packages, and continuous staff development programs to enhance service quality
and build customer trust. By addressing these challenges and leveraging the available
opportunities, daycare businesses in Makassar can achieve sustainable growth and
contribute to improving early childhood care standards in the region. This research offers
helpful tips for entrepreneurs, policymakers, and stakeholders in developing strategies to
strengthen the competitiveness of the daycare sector.