President Prabowo Inaugurates 166 People’s Schools Nationwide

President Prabowo inaugurates 166 schools for “Sekolah Rakyat” program across Indonesia, at the Center for Social Welfare Education and Training (BBPPKS) in Banjarbaru city, South Kalimantan province, on Monday (01/12). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat)

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated 166 schools for “Sekolah Rakyat” (People’s School) program across Indonesia, at the Center for Social Welfare Education and Training (BBPPKS) in Banjarbaru city, South Kalimantan province, on Monday (01/12).

The “Sekolah Rakyat” program is part of the Government’s efforts to expand inclusive and equitable access to education.

The inauguration ceremony commenced with the singing of the national anthem, Indonesia Raya, by all attendees. The Sekolah Rakyat students then performed a lively and well-coordinated marching routine, watched with pride by President Prabowo.

The event continued with the screening of a video titled “Manifesto of Sekolah Rakyat”, which highlighted the spirit and aspirations that form the foundation of education at Sekolah Rakyat. After the video, the students presented a theatrical performance reflecting their journey and hopes for shaping the future of Indonesian children.

During the theatrical performance, the student representative presented a novel authored by the students to President Prabowo. A proud moment for the President was when four students delivered speeches in English, Chinese, Japanese, and Arabic.

In his remarks, the President expressed appreciation and gratitude to all segments of the nation who have worked tirelessly to make Sekolah Rakyat a reality. He described the initiative as a breakthrough and bold step.

“I’d like to thank all parties, from all ministries and agencies, all institutions, and all elements who have contributed to making this initiative a reality. In my opinion, this is a breakthrough, a bold step. Thank you all. We have realized this initiative. Honestly, I am elated and deeply touched seeing the impact of our collective work,” the President said.

Meanwhile, in his report, Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf stated that Sekolah Rakyat program, a direct initiative of President Prabowo, is designed as a strategic effort to break the cycle of poverty. Since July of last year, the program has started at several locations across Indonesia.

“In total, this program has been carried out in 166 locations spread across 34 provinces and 131 regencies or cities throughout Indonesia. [The program] accommodates 15,954 students, 2,218 teachers, and 4,889 education personnel,” the Minister said.  (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (FI/TM)