By: Moeini Syakir *)
The People’s School (Sekolah Rakyat) is a tangible manifestation of hope for children from poor families to access quality education without facing financial constraints. Its presence is not just another program, but a concrete step by the government to address the education gap that continues to be felt by many.
Through the People’s School, the government is not only providing learning spaces but also providing housing and a more focused lifestyle for students who have previously received less attention. This program is a breath of fresh air amidst the various challenges facing national education, which often intersect with economic issues. Under the leadership of Saifullah Yusuf, the Ministry of Social Affairs is finalizing the launch of the People’s School as a concrete manifestation of the government’s commitment to realizing an inclusive education system for all levels of society. The People’s School not only targets children from underprivileged families but is also designed as an educational model that emphasizes character development and life skills, through a boarding approach and integrated learning.
Saifullah Yusuf stated that People’s School graduates will receive diplomas with the same legal standing as those issued by formal schools. These graduation certificates will be issued by their respective schools, and the status of the People’s Schools is officially recorded in the national education database. This demonstrates that the program is not merely an experiment, but rather a recognized part of the formal education system.
The initial launch of this program began in the 2025/2026 academic year, with 53 People’s School units out of the target of 200 schools starting operations in July 2025. This program has been officially regulated in Presidential Instruction Number 8 of 2025 concerning the Optimization of the Implementation of Poverty Alleviation and the Elimination of Extreme Poverty.
The existence of this regulation is strong evidence that the state is present and responsible for the future of the nation’s children, especially those from families with limited financial means. This initiative was initiated by President Prabowo Subianto as part of the government’s broader vision to break the cycle of poverty and provide opportunities for underprivileged children to avoid being trapped in the same cycle.
The President believes that education is the key to transforming the lives of the common people, and therefore, the People’s School (Sekolah Rakyat) has been designated as a national pilot project that will be further expanded to various regions across Indonesia. Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has also paid close attention to the program’s implementation. During his visit to the Professor Doctor Soeharso Integrated Central People’s School in Surakarta, Gibran personally observed the facilities provided, from classrooms and dining rooms to dormitories.
Gibran also took the time to speak directly with students undergoing the School Environment Introduction Period. In his statement, he expressed his hope that the reach of the People’s School could continue to expand and the quality of its education could continue to improve, so that all Indonesian children could enjoy a quality education equally, without leaving anyone behind.
This move certainly marks a significant turning point in national education reform, with the government prioritizing children from low-income families in its education policy. People’s Schools are not just educational institutions, but also second homes, capable of fostering enthusiasm, character, and hope in their students. Children previously at risk of dropping out of school now have the opportunity to grow and develop in a conducive and supportive environment.
In practice, the People’s School uses two parallel curricula. The first is a formal curriculum developed by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education. This curriculum covers general subjects as taught in conventional schools. Meanwhile, the second is a boarding curriculum, designed to develop discipline, independence, and the life skills students need to face future challenges.
The implementation of this dual curriculum adds value to the People’s School, as it focuses not only on academics but also on character development and social development. With a boarding system, students receive intensive supervision, guidance, and reinforcement of life values, ultimately helping to shape a young generation that is not only intelligent but also possesses integrity and competitiveness.
With the establishment of the People’s School, the government provides a space for children from the poorest families to achieve their dreams. There is no longer any excuse for them to be left behind simply because of economic factors. This school is a concrete manifestation of social justice in the education sector, providing equal access and facilities to every child of the nation, regardless of social and economic background.
Now is the time for all elements of society to support this program. The People’s School is proof that a better future can be built through equitable and inclusive education. Poor children are not a burden, but rather a national asset that must be nurtured and empowered. Public support, from local governments, communities, and the business world, is essential to ensure this program is not merely a short-term project but is able to sustain and thrive in the long term.
Through the People’s School program, the government demonstrates that education is not a privilege, but a fundamental right of every Indonesian child. By continuing to expand the reach of this program, we collectively affirm that no child should be left behind in the nation’s progress simply because of poverty.
*) Public Policy Observer
