Gus Ipul Urges School Rakyat Principals to Prioritize Student Onboarding, Facility Care, and Documentation

Indonesian Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf, also known as Gus Ipul, has directed principals of "Sekolah Rakyat" (People's Schools) across the nation to focus on three critical aspects of school management. During a virtual coordination meeting on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, he stressed the need to complete the "Masa Pengenalan Lingkungan Sekolah" (MPLS), or student onboarding, and ensure accurate initial student data. He also highlighted the importance of preserving school facilities as state property and bolstering public documentation and narratives surrounding these institutions.

Gus Ipul specifically called for thorough documentation of student health examinations and talent mapping, including DNA Talent tests. He also reiterated the continuation and regular reporting of the "Program Taruna Bhakti." "Make sure student health checks are complete, health data is stored properly, and DNA Talent tests are conducted for all students. Succeed in the Taruna Bhakti Program and report its implementation regularly," he stated.

The minister further underscored the necessity of cultivating a culture of discipline and care for school facilities, which are state assets. "Don't let a building that large become dirty and neglected within a year, creating a negative impression. Build a culture of order and cleanliness from the start," he urged. He stressed that discipline should permeate all levels of the school community, with principals acting as moral compasses.

To strengthen the public perception of Sekolah Rakyat, Gus Ipul encouraged principals to extensively document school activities. This includes recording the entire MPLS process, from student arrival with parents to daily life in dormitories, capturing simple moments that illustrate student development. "Record the entire MPLS process thoroughly, from students being escorted by parents, health checks, daily activities to life in the dormitory. Document the simple moments that show the development of our children because that will be the baseline of their change," Gus Ipul said.

In response, Budiman, principal of SRMP 30 Sidrap, reported that MPLS had proceeded well but acknowledged challenges related to student adaptation and health, which led to some students being sent home.