(Photo by: BPMI Presidential Secretariat)
In a bid to ensure equitable access to education, the Government is set to launch a national boarding school program aimed at providing quality education to children from low-income families. Additionally, the program is also expected to strengthen social mobility and navigate national education challenges.
As for the initial phase, as many as 100 boarding schools will be established across various regions in the country.
“I received a report from the Minister of Social Affairs, who just returned from Central Java province. He informed me that since we are also preparing to open at least a hundred boarding schools for our people in the lowest economic brackets, specifically those in the first and second income deciles,” President Prabowo Subianto said during a Plenary Cabinet Meeting at the Presidential Palace in Central Jakarta, Monday (05/05).
The President underscored that the public-school program is part of the Government’s steadfast commitment to expanding equitable access to education for all Indonesian children. He also expressed appreciation for the swift actions of related ministers, especially the Minister of Social Affairs and the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, for their efforts in preparing the program, which is set to begin implementation in July.
“I have said many times—there’s no need to rush, but we must get it done. Nevertheless, if there are those who believe they can move faster, then please do. In the end, it’s our poorest citizens who will benefit the most,” he added.
The Head of State also noted that over 200 regents and mayors across the country have already prepared land to support the construction of the schools. He emphasized that planning must be targeted and detailed, particularly focusing on areas with high poverty rates.
“The preparations are well underway and will be refined over the next two to three weeks. Please ensure the implementation is effective. We have budgeted for campus construction in a way that is both cost-efficient and of good quality,” the President concluded. (BPMI Presidential Secretariat) (GWH/MUR)
