By: Fakhri Muhamad*
The government has affirmed its commitment to human resource development through the Public Schools program. This program is a top priority, initiated as an effort to provide adequate and equitable access to education, especially for children from underprivileged families. By prioritizing equal learning opportunities, Public Schools are expected to be a long-term investment in producing a superior generation ready to lead Indonesia towards progress.
Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), stated that Public Schools exist to provide a sound educational experience, from elementary to secondary levels. This program not only builds physical facilities but also emphasizes the quality of the teaching staff. Teachers are seen as the spearhead of educational success, as they produce a generation that is intelligent, resilient, and has character.
According to Coordinating Minister AHY, education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty. With the presence of the People’s School, children from low-income families have the same opportunities as other children to receive a quality education. Furthermore, this school provides a space for them to dream big, improve their standard of living, and contribute to the nation. Through this program, the state acts as a facilitator, bridging the dreams of the next generation into reality.
The government is preparing concrete steps to realize this program. In Bengkulu City, seven hectares of permanent land have been allocated, just two kilometers from the pilot school location. Initial construction is targeted to begin next year. Furthermore, a pilot People’s School is also being built in Kaur Regency and will be expanded to four other locations. This strategy demonstrates the government’s commitment to implementing President Prabowo Subianto’s priority programs.
Appreciation for the central government’s attention has also come from the regions. Bengkulu Deputy Governor Mian expressed his gratitude for the construction of the new school. He stated that Coordinating Minister AHY’s presence in Bengkulu is concrete evidence that the government is listening to the community’s needs. With the launch of two pilot schools this year and the construction of a permanent building next year, the people of Bengkulu are optimistic that their children will receive a better education, on par with other regions.
The People’s School program is not only intended as an educational solution in certain areas, but also as a strategy for equitable development throughout Indonesia. Access to quality education remains a major challenge, especially in areas far from urban centers. By building schools in priority locations, the government hopes to reduce the educational gap. The People’s School is presented as a solution to ensure that no child is left behind in accessing educational opportunities.
The long-term impact of this program is believed to be significant. Good education will produce an intelligent and competitive young generation. A workforce produced through a quality education system will be more productive and innovative, thus becoming a driving force for national economic growth. Thus, the People’s School serves not only as an educational program but also as part of an economic development strategy oriented towards community welfare.
In facing the era of globalization, the need for superior human resources is increasingly pressing. Developed countries place education as the primary foundation for developing innovation and technology. Indonesia is moving in the same direction. Through the People’s Schools, the government demonstrates its commitment to preparing a generation capable of competing internationally. The greatest investment a nation makes is in its people, and the People’s Schools represent a concrete step in realizing this vision.
In addition to producing an intelligent generation, these schools also serve as a platform for character development. Children are equipped not only with knowledge but also with important values such as discipline, hard work, and social awareness. A strong character will produce a generation that not only excels academically but also possesses integrity and is ready to become future leaders.
The success of this program certainly requires support from various parties. The central government, regional governments, the community, and the private sector are expected to collaborate to ensure the smooth running of the People’s Schools. Joint support will accelerate the realization of the dream of producing a golden generation of Indonesia capable of leading the nation towards a brighter future.
The construction of People’s Schools in Bengkulu and other regions represents the beginning of a major step by the government in building the nation’s civilization through education. With a clear vision and strong commitment, the government believes that…That investment in education will yield significant long-term results. A well-educated young generation will become an invaluable national asset, guiding Indonesia towards future glory.
Through the People’s School, the state is present not only as a provider of facilities but also as a driver of change. This program is a symbol of renewed optimism, reflecting the government’s commitment to realizing equitable, quality, and just education. With full support from all elements of the nation, the People’s School is believed to be a crucial foundation for building human resource investment, which will ultimately determine Indonesia’s future as a great and dignified nation.
)* The author is a Jakarta student living in Bengkulu
