The Government Inaugurates 166 Public Schools, a Long-Term Investment in Developing Superior Human Resources
Banjarbaru – President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated 166 People’s Schools across 34 provinces in Indonesia. The inauguration was part of the government’s commitment to expanding access to free, quality education for children from poor and vulnerable families across the country.
In his remarks, Prabowo emphasized that the presence of People’s Schools is not merely the physical construction of schools, but a tangible manifestation of the state’s presence for the common people. He called education the key to breaking the cycle of poverty that has persisted across generations.
“By saying bismillahirrahmanirrahim, today I inaugurate 166 People’s Schools across Indonesia. This is the nation’s endeavor to ensure children from underprivileged families have a better future,” Prabowo said at the inauguration.
Prabowo also admitted to being moved by seeing firsthand the condition of the students who can now receive a decent education. He viewed this program as a first step towards equalizing the quality of human resources in Indonesia.
“I witnessed the enthusiasm of these children firsthand. Frankly, I was deeply moved, even having difficulty holding back tears. This is why the state must be truly present,” said Prabowo.
Meanwhile, Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf, also known as Gus Ipul, explained that the People’s School (Sekolah Rakyat) was designed as an integrated poverty alleviation model that combines education, social protection, and family empowerment. He stated that this program targets children who have traditionally been outside the reach of the formal education system.
“The People’s School is the President’s integrated poverty alleviation model. The children enrolled here come from extremely poor families, and the state takes responsibility for their education,” said Gus Ipul.
He added that through a boarding system and intensive mentoring, the People’s School is expected to be able to shape character and skills, as well as open up broader future opportunities for students.
“This isn’t just a school, but a place to cultivate hope. The President wants to ensure that poverty isn’t passed on to the next generation,” he continued.
The government also emphasized that the People’s Schools are a long-term investment for the nation. The Head of the Government Communications Agency, Angga Raka Prabowo, described the program as a strategic effort to develop superior human resources from an early age.
“People’s Schools are a national investment. We are preparing the future generation to make Indonesia stronger, more independent, and more competitive,” he said.
The regional government has also expressed support for this program. Palangka Raya Mayor Fairid Naparin believes the presence of the People’s Schools opens access to free education for low-income families who have previously faced limitations.
“This is a response to the needs of underprivileged communities. Children can now attend school without worrying about costs,” said Fairid.
Currently, People’s Schools accommodate thousands of students, supported by thousands of teachers and educational staff. The government aims to continue expanding the number of People’s Schools to hundreds across Indonesia, as part of the Prabowo Subianto administration’s grand vision of building a more just and prosperous Indonesia.
