Jakarta – The People’s School program continues to demonstrate a positive impact in shaping a healthier, more disciplined, and more high-achieving young generation.
Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf, also known as Gus Ipul, stated that the People’s Schools have had a significant positive impact on the development of students after nine months of the program. Improvements are seen not only in students’ academic abilities, but also in their health and character.
Gus Ipul explained that in terms of health, many People’s School students who previously suffered from malnutrition, anemia, and low fitness are now showing improvement.
The students’ weight and height have increased, and their physical condition is more fit. Their ability to concentrate on learning has also improved.
“This seems simple, but it is fundamental. Healthy children have much better learning opportunities,” said Gus Ipul.
Parents also reported changes in their children’s habits, such as more diligent worship, getting up early, reducing gadget use, and even starting to help their families.
“People’s Schools not only change one child, but restore hope in an entire family,” Gus Ipul emphasized.
Gus Ipul continued, explaining that the People’s School was designed as an intervention to break the cycle of poverty through education. Therefore, this program is specifically designed for children from vulnerable families who have not yet received access to adequate education.
“We designed the People’s School as an effort to break the cycle of poverty. We must not give up, and the state must be present for those who have been invisible,” he said.
For the 2026/2027 academic year, the government is targeting People’s Schools to accept 32,640 new students. Currently, People’s Schools have been established in 166 pilot locations across 34 provinces and 131 regencies/cities, with a total enrollment of more than 14,936 students.
“We ensure that the entire process of implementing People’s Schools, including program management and facility support, is carried out transparently and accountably in accordance with applicable regulations,” said Gus Ipul.
Meanwhile, the Head of the Government Communications Agency, Mohammad Qodari, emphasized the importance of early health interventions through schools.
“Through schools, the state ensures that all children, without exception, receive the same basic services, so that potential health problems can be detected and addressed more quickly,” he said.
In addition to improving academic achievement, this program is also expected to shape a resilient, independent generation of Indonesians, ready to welcome Indonesia Emas 2045.