The Government Ensures Continuous Improvement of Public School Facilities to Improve Learning Quality
Jakarta – The government has reaffirmed its commitment to continuously strengthening public school facilities to improve the quality of learning for the community. A total of 160 public schools have officially begun operations and are providing direct benefits to residents in various regions.
Social Minister Syaifullah Yusuf said that of the total target of 165 schools, only five are still waiting for the completion of facilities before they can be fully used.
“Of the target of 165, around 160 are already operational. The remaining five are still awaiting equipment, such as furniture, so they can be fully utilized,” said Syaifullah Yusuf.
The People’s School program will be launched in stages starting in July 2025. In the first phase, the Ministry of Social Affairs inaugurated 63 schools, followed by 37 additional locations in August. Then, in September, another 60 People’s Schools began operations. The final five locations are targeted for completion by the second week of October.
“The new ones in Bangkalan and Banyuwangi will be operational as of September. The rest will be completed by October. Then, in November, once fully prepared, they will be officially inaugurated by President Prabowo,” added Social Affairs Minister Syaifullah Yusuf.
The People’s School Program not only functions as an education center, but is also designed to be a miniature integrated poverty alleviation program through a multi-sector approach involving social, economic, and community empowerment.
Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo also assured infrastructure support. He stated that most of the Elementary School buildings were in excellent condition.
“Because they’re more actively used, they require earlier maintenance. But overall, 90 percent of the buildings are in good condition,” Dody said.
Furthermore, Minister of Public Works Dody Hanggodo explained that the government is targeting the construction of 500 public schools across Indonesia. Of these, 100 schools have entered the construction phase since October 2025.
“This is the foundation for the ideal People’s School model. In 2026, we will begin phase one with a target of 100 to 200 new schools,” he explained.
The construction of the People’s Schools is entirely funded by the state budget, requiring between 5 and 10 hectares of land per location. The government has allocated approximately Rp 20 trillion for 100 schools, or around Rp 200 billion to Rp 300 billion per unit.
“We hope the local government will prepare the land. For North Sulawesi, there will be two additional public schools in Minahasa and Bolaang Mongondow,” he said.
As part of improving the quality of learning, Minister of Public Works Dody Hanggodo also ensured that every Elementary School must have sports facilities and physical activity rooms.
“Health is important, so sports facilities are mandatory in every elementary school,” he said.
By strengthening infrastructure and supporting educational facilities, the government is optimistic that People’s Schools will become an inclusive learning model that leads the community towards a more prosperous life.
