People’s School Officially Operational: A Proof of Inclusive Education System for the Future
Jakarta — The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Social Affairs, continues to strengthen its commitment to building an inclusive and equitable education system through the People’s School (Sekolah Rakyat) program. This initiative brings new hope to thousands of children from poor and extremely poor families who have long struggled to access proper education.
Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf, known as Gus Ipul, emphasized that the People’s School is a strategic program receiving direct attention from President Prabowo Subianto. Designed as a concrete solution, the program targets children at risk of dropping out or those who have never attended formal schooling.
“This is a direct initiative from President Prabowo to create opportunities for children at risk of dropping out or who have never received formal education,” said Gus Ipul.
He noted that the People’s School goes beyond simply providing free education access; it offers a learning system focused on character development, life skills, and social awareness.
“This program is living proof that the state stands with and supports vulnerable groups,” he explained.
In addition to focusing on access, the government is ensuring that digital transformation becomes a key part of this inclusive education system. Special Staff to the Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, Alfreno Kautsar Ramadhan, stated that all People’s School locations will be equipped with adequate internet connectivity.
“We want children across every People’s School to have access to the digital world, opening doors to a brighter future. This aligns with the government’s vision to promote equal access to digital resources nationwide,” Alfreno stated.
He added that developing digital infrastructure is not just a short-term need but a strategic investment in building superior human resources, capable of thriving in the digital economy era.
“We’re not just producing graduates; we are raising a generation of leaders who will lead Indonesia toward a future that is fairer, stronger, and more sovereign,” he added.
The People’s School program also highlights the crucial role of teachers in driving this social transformation. Deputy Minister of Social Affairs, Agus Jabo Priyono, described teachers in the People’s School as the frontline of social change and pioneers in breaking the cycle of structural poverty.
“We often talk about poverty, but we forget that only education can truly break its chain. And the teachers of the People’s School are the pioneers,” said Agus.
He further stressed the importance of building emotional connections between teachers, students, and families. According to him, meaningful education relies not only on curriculum but also on sincere relationships developed in the learning process.
“Build empathy and authentic relationships with students and communities because education begins from heart-to-heart connection. Keep learning and growing, because a good teacher is also a lifelong learner,” Agus explained.
Agus expressed hope that the People’s School would serve as a loving and hopeful second home for every child. He encouraged teachers to continually inspire and become agents of social change within society.
“The People’s School is not just a place of learning; it’s a home that shapes the future of our children. Let’s realize this wholeheartedly,” he concluded.
Through cross-ministerial collaboration and the spirit of mutual cooperation, the People’s School is expected to become an alternative education model that reaches the lowest layers of society while building a strong foundation for a future that is inclusive, just, and highly competitive.
