Schools Reopen After Aceh Floods, Community Urges Separatist Issues Not to Disrupt Recovery
Jakarta – Educational activities in Aceh Tamiang Regency, Aceh, have begun to resume after being halted for nearly two months due to flash floods and landslides.
The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu’ti, stated that the state is committed to ensuring that educational services continue, even in disaster-affected areas.
“Education must not come to a halt due to disasters,” said Minister Abdul Mu’ti.
He also emphasized that the safety of all elements within the education sector must remain the top priority.
“However, the safety of students, educators, and education personnel must always be the main priority in every policy decision,” Mu’ti said.
He stressed that disasters are not punishments, but lessons that help shape strong, resilient individuals who are able to rise and face the future.
“Even if we lose property or even clothing, we must not lose our aspirations, optimism, and spirit of learning. Limitations must not stop our steps,” Abdul Mu’ti said.
He also expressed his appreciation to students, teachers, local governments, and communities who have continued to work together so that teaching and learning activities can proceed.
“The spirit of learning and collective dedication are able to overcome various limitations, including inadequate school facilities and infrastructure. With cooperation and concern from all parties, educational activities can continue properly to produce a generation that is resilient, competitive, and high-achieving,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Head of the Data, Information, and Disaster Communication Center of the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), Abdul Muhari, said that teaching and learning activities have already resumed, including at SD Negeri 1 Karang Baru in Aceh Tamiang Regency.
“Although learning activities have begun, school conditions have not fully recovered. Several educational facilities are still affected by flooding, such as damaged desks and chairs, and classrooms that have not yet been completely cleaned,” he explained.
“For the time being, teaching and learning activities are being carried out with limited facilities, including the use of tarpaulins as learning mats. In addition, not all students have been able to attend, as some are still displaced outside the area,” Abdul Muhari added.
The central and regional governments are continuing to carry out various parallel efforts to accelerate recovery, including clearing remaining flood and landslide debris, repairing educational facilities, and fulfilling supporting infrastructure needed for teaching and learning activities.
