Government Expands People’s School Construction to 100 Locations Across 32 Provinces

The Government continues to expand access to education through the second phase of Sekolah Rakyat (People’s Schools) construction at 100 locations across 32 provinces. The project aims to accommodate up to 122,000 students and generate economic benefits for surrounding communities by employing around 97,000 local workers.

Minister of Public Works Dody Hanggodo said the construction of People’s Schools reflects the Government’s commitment to developing human resources by providing adequate, modern educational facilities. The program also supports the implementation of President Prabowo Subianto’s Asta Cita (eight goals) by expanding educational opportunities for children from underprivileged families.

“What we are not merely constructing school buildings. We are making a long-term investment in the nation’s next generation by providing access to adequate, modern education. This is why, infrastructure quality remains our top priority,” Dody said, as quoted from Ministry of Public Works website, Tuesday (10/27).

In addition to providing educational facilities, the construction of People’s Schools creates employment opportunities for communities near project sites. Hiring local workers and sourcing construction materials, food, and transportation services also stimulate economic activity in these areas throughout the construction period.

Each People’s School campus is designed as an integrated educational ecosystem comprising learning facilities, laboratories, student dormitories, teachers’ housing, and other supporting facilities. These facilities are expected to support students’ development and enhance the quality of education.

Dody also emphasized that People’s Schools are expected to help break the cycle of poverty by providing more inclusive education.

“People from Sabang to Merauke who have never had the opportunity to attend school can receive education here. They can not only study but also benefit from modern facilities,” Dody said.

The Government plans to build the third phase of People’s Schools at 100 additional locations, each with a capacity of more than 2,000 students. The expansion is expected to further broaden access to quality education and strengthen human resource development across the regions. (PR of Ministry of Public Works/PR of Ministry of State Secretariat) (EST/MEP)