Indonesian President Calls for Expansion of People’s School Program to Improve Welfare
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has underscored the critical role of education in improving public welfare and called for the accelerated expansion of the Sekolah Rakyat (People’s School) program to provide broader access to quality education across the country.
Speaking during a visit to Sekolah Rakyat Junior High School (SRMP) 17 in Tabanan, Bali, on Sunday, the President emphasized the importance of strengthening education and vocational training in various sectors as part of efforts to enhance the quality of Indonesia’s human resources.
“Education can make people prosperous in all areas. Education and training for farmers, teachers, nurses, and other professions must continue to be improved,” Prabowo said, according to a statement issued by the Presidential Secretariat.
The President noted that advancing education and training requires substantial investment and sustained commitment over the long term. He stressed that the government remains dedicated to responsibly managing state resources to ensure they are utilized for the benefit and welfare of the people.
Prabowo expressed satisfaction with the progress achieved under the Sekolah Rakyat initiative, which aims to provide quality educational opportunities for disadvantaged communities. However, he acknowledged that demand for the program remains significant, reflecting the need for broader educational access throughout the country.
“I am pleased to see the progress of Sekolah Rakyat. Nevertheless, much work remains to be done because many people still need access to these schools,” he said.
The President called for the rapid development and expansion of Sekolah Rakyat facilities nationwide and urged regional governments, ministries, and state institutions to work together in identifying innovative solutions to increase educational capacity. He suggested making use of underutilized government facilities as temporary learning spaces while permanent school buildings are under construction.
The expansion of the Sekolah Rakyat program forms part of the government’s broader commitment to ensuring equal access to education for underprivileged communities. Through the initiative, authorities aim to provide more Indonesian children with opportunities to receive quality education and improve their future living standards.
Prabowo emphasized that education should be regarded not merely as a classroom activity but as a long-term investment in developing a generation capable of leading Indonesia toward greater progress, self-reliance, and inclusive prosperity.
