Jakarta – Social Minister Saifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul) visited the Deli Serdang 1 Junior High School (SRMP) in North Sumatra. Also present were Deli Serdang Deputy Regent Lom Lom Suwondo, House of Representatives Commission VIII Member M Husni, and Ministry of Social Affairs Secretary General Robben Rico. The event also showcased the students’ various talents, including dance, choir, poetry, and speeches in English and Arabic.
Gus Ipul said the boarding school, initiated by President Prabowo Subianto, is an inclusive learning place for students with disabilities without discriminating against others.
“Here, we’re united. We’re inclusive, we don’t discriminate, we still learn together,” Gus Ipul emphasized.
One of them is a student named Alifa, a disabled student with Down syndrome. Gus Ipul believes Alifa has talents and invites teachers and educational staff to guide her in honing her talents.
“People with Down syndrome certainly struggle to learn as other children do. But this child definitely has strengths and talents. It’s the teachers’ job to reinforce these special qualities,” added Gus Ipul.
On the other hand, Gus Ipul also appreciated the religious tolerance at SRMP 1 Deli Serdang. He emphasized that intolerance, bullying, and physical or sexual violence should not exist at the Elementary School.
“Those who performed earlier included Muslims, Catholics, and Christians, dancing together on stage. This is the harmony education developed in the Elementary School. There should be no intolerance, physical violence, or bullying,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, Jonna Damanik, Commissioner of the National Commission on Disabilities (KND), also praised the learning at the People’s School, which promotes the Multi-Entry, Multi-Exit concept. This curriculum model encourages students to learn according to their individual talents and interests, including students with disabilities.
“The Multi-Entry, Multi-Exit principle is the philosophy of the People’s School. What does that mean? They certainly have potential, which we are confident teachers, principals, and mentors can explore in the future. The People’s School is inclusive of people with disabilities,” said Jonna. [*]