Government Targets Establishment of Hundreds of People’s Schools Every Year to Produce Superior Human Resources
By: Doni Wicaksono )*
In the midst of the era of global transformation and increasingly complex demands of the times, human resource development (HRD) has become a strategic agenda that is non-negotiable. Indonesia, with its large demographic bonus and abundant natural resource wealth, has a golden opportunity to leap far ahead. However, all of this potential can only be achieved if Indonesian HR has adequate quality, character, and capacity. Responding to this challenge, the government is now targeting the establishment of hundreds of People’s Schools every year, which is a visionary and bold step that deserves wide appreciation.
These People’s Schools are designed to reach communities that have so far been on the fringes of formal education access both geographically, socially, and economically. In the midst of various challenges in equalizing education, the presence of People’s Schools is a promising concrete solution. The government understands that it is not enough to just build school buildings; what is needed is an education system that is alive, relevant, and embraces the diversity of the conditions of the nation’s children.
Deputy Minister of Social Affairs, Agus Jabo Priyono said, currently the construction process of the People’s School is underway on land that has been proposed by the local government. This project is part of a joint effort between the central and local governments to expand access to equitable and quality education throughout Indonesia. Each local government has the same opportunity and responsibility to propose suitable land as a location for the construction of new educational facilities. The proposal is a strategic step in accelerating the development of educational infrastructure that is in accordance with the needs of the local community.
The government’s target to establish hundreds of People’s Schools each year reflects a strong commitment to the development of superior human resources. This is not only about quantity, but also quality. People’s Schools are expected to be an alternative space that is able to produce a generation of lifelong, critical, creative, and characterful learners. Through an approach based on local needs and potential, students are not only taught the standard curriculum, but are also equipped with life skills, cultural knowledge, digital literacy, and national values. This is a real form of transformative education based on Pancasila values that empowers.
One of the main strengths of People’s Schools is its flexibility. This flexibility allows education to be present wherever and whenever it is needed. By actively involving the community from local educators, traditional leaders, to literacy volunteers, Sekolah Rakyat fosters a sense of ownership and shared responsibility for the education of the younger generation.
Furthermore, this initiative is also a reflection of the spirit of mutual cooperation that is the identity of the nation. The government does not work alone. Non-governmental organizations, the business world, universities, and community leaders are expected to play an active role in supporting the birth and development of Sekolah Rakyat. With this collaborative model, education remains the main responsibility of the state, but is fully supported by all elements of society. This is also a way to strengthen social capital and build trust between the government and the people.
Meanwhile, the Lampung Provincial Education Office continues to mature the preparation of human resources (HR) to support the operations of Sekolah Rakyat which will soon be launched. The Head of the Lampung Provincial Education Office, Thomas Americo, said that currently his party has submitted eight prospective school principals to take part in the selection and competency test at the ministerial level. This step is part of the Lampung Provincial Government’s commitment to providing inclusive and quality education, especially for people in remote or underserved areas.
In the context of long-term development, People’s Schools can be an important foundation for social transformation. Quality and equitable education will produce intelligent, independent, and competitive citizens. This generation will fill various strategic sectors from agriculture to technology, from public services to entrepreneurship with an innovative and ethical approach. People’s Schools, with all their simplicity, have extraordinary potential as incubators of superior human resources who are ready to face local and global challenges.
Of course, the realization of this target is not free from challenges. From the budget, management, to the quality of teachers, all require attention and hard work. However, the spirit of change is already clearly visible. The government has shown its seriousness through affirmative policies, teacher training, and the provision of facilities and infrastructure that are adjusted to field conditions. With strict supervision and continuous evaluation, People’s Schools have the potential to grow into an alternative education model that is no less qualified than formal schools.
In the future, People’s Schools can be a symbol of the progress of Indonesian education that is more equitable, just, and humane. An education movement that reaches all levels of society and elevates the dignity of every child of the nation regardless of background. The government has lit the torch of change. Our shared task is to keep the flame alive and growing, illuminating the path to Golden Indonesia 2045 filled with human resources who are not only intellectually superior, but also morally and spiritually resilient.
)* The author is a public policy observer
