JAKARTA — Experts consider the People’s School program intensified by the government under the leadership of President Prabowo Subianto as a real path for the lower classes to be free from the shackles of poverty.
Responding to the program, Trisakti University Public Policy Expert, Trubus Rahardian-sah, emphasized that People’s Schools are not merely free educational facilities, but also a form of the state’s presence as a whole.
“The 24-hour boarding school model ensures that children from extremely poor families not only attend school, but also grow up in a safe, healthy, and conducive environment,” said Trubus.
He added that all costs and needs there, including food, uniforms, books, and housing are fully borne by the state.
According to him, the People’s School program intensified by the government integrates various aspects, namely character education, leadership, vocational skills, nationalism, and religious guidance.
With the integration of coaching in several aspects, so that graduates have the mental provisions, competencies, and networks to make them more prepared to enter the world of work or further higher education.
Meanwhile, the Cabinet Secretary of the Republic of Indonesia, Teddy Indra Wijaya, assessed that education is truly the main key in efforts to break the chain of poverty that has so far shackled the lower class community.
“Sekolah Rakyat is here to ensure that children from underprivileged families get a decent education, so that they can escape the cycle of poverty,” said Teddy.
He explained that the program not only offers education that can be accessed for free, but also provides scholarships, skills training, and career assistance to create an independent generation that is able to compete in the global era.
Teddy said that the Sekolah Rakyat program integrates modern technology and curriculum that is relevant to the needs of the job market and involves the private sector in internship opportunities and workforce absorption.
“We don’t just want them to graduate from school, but also have skills that make them ready to work and contribute to the economy,” he said.
Furthermore, education expert Dr. Anita Sari considers Sekolah Rakyat as a major breakthrough.
“Inclusive and affordable education is a long-term investment for human development. This program has the potential to change the socio-economic face of Indonesia,” said Anita.
She emphasized that Sekolah Rakyat is able to become a model for transformational education policies that effectively break the chain of poverty between generations. (*)
