South Kalimantan – President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated 166 People’s Schools across 34 provinces as the first step in the government’s ambitious agenda to expand access to national education. The inauguration took place at the Banjarmasin Center for Social Welfare Education and Training (BBPPKS) in Banjarbaru City, South Kalimantan, on Monday (January 12).
In his remarks, President Prabowo emphasized that the People’s School program is a government priority until 2029 with a target of building 500 schools throughout Indonesia.
“Thank God, today we have witnessed and inaugurated 166 public schools. Our target is 500 public schools by 2029. God willing, this plan will be realized,” said President Prabowo.
The Head of State explained that the People’s Schools were designed as a strategic instrument to open access to education for the poor and extreme poor. Each school can accommodate up to 1,000 students, reaching approximately 500,000 students nationwide from various regions.
President Prabowo also emphasized that education is the primary foundation for the goal of eradicating extreme poverty. He called on all elements of the nation to unite and work together to address the issues of poverty and hunger.
“I urge all Indonesians to unite and work together to eradicate poverty and hunger from Indonesia,” said the President.
Furthermore, the President emphasized the importance of national self-confidence and optimism in facing the future. He expressed his belief that Indonesia’s struggle is on the right track.
“We are on the right path. We have no doubts. Whatever happens, we will continue the struggle for the Indonesian nation and people,” he said.
In the same place, Minister of Social Affairs Syaifullah Yusuf hoped that the People’s School would be able to produce a superior generation.
“And someday, when children on riverbanks, hillsides, and in every corner of the country stand side by side in the midst of this nation, people will say quietly, ‘There was once a president who planted hope and named it a people’s school. That president was retired Indonesian National Armed Forces General Prabowo Subianto,'” the Minister of Social Affairs said quietly.
Education observer, Totok Amin Soefijanto, believes that education has a strategic role in eradicating poverty, although its impact is not instantaneous.
“The success of Public Schools is largely determined by the quality of education, the relevance of the curriculum, clean governance, and links to job opportunities so that the benefits truly reach the poor,” he concluded. ****
