Indonesia's 'People's Schools' Aim to Fulfill Children's Right to Education

On Indonesia's National Children's Day, Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf, known as Gus Ipul, reaffirmed the government's dedication to ensuring all children receive quality education and a supportive learning environment. He spoke during a special talk show on TV One, alongside the Minister of Women Empowerment and Child Protection, a neuroscientist, and a child advocate.

Gus Ipul acknowledged that technological advancements present new challenges in child protection, necessitating strengthened government efforts in protection, assistance, and rehabilitation for children in need. He stressed the importance of supporting vulnerable families, particularly those in the lowest income deciles, who have not yet fully benefited from national development. He identified inequality as a major national challenge.

To address the issue of nearly four million children who are out of school or at risk of dropping out, according to Statistics Indonesia (BPS), the government is implementing the "Sekolah Rakyat" (People's School) program. This initiative provides boarding facilities and does not require academic tests, focusing instead on reaching children from disadvantaged backgrounds. The goal is to offer them a good education and better future prospects.

The minister noted that over 65 percent of parents of students in these schools come from low-income families, with many being elementary school graduates. Through Sekolah Rakyat, the government hopes these students will complete their education and become agents of change within their families and communities. Gus Ipul expressed his hope that the program will serve as an inspiration and a model for educating vulnerable families.