Smart Indonesia Aid Exclusively for Education, Not Cellular Credits: Jokowi

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: President Joko Widodo, during the distribution of educational assistance funds under the Indonesia Pintar (Smart Indonesia) Program in Magelang, Central Java, on Monday, emphasized that the financial aid provided is intended specifically for essential school needs and not for the purchase of smartphones and cellular credits.

The President made this declaration via a video broadcast from Jakarta, reiterating that the allocated funds are designated for items like books, stationery, uniforms, and shoes. He underscored the importance of responsible spending, emphasizing that the aid is a crucial part of supporting the educational journey of students across the nation.

The Smart Indonesia Program, initiated by the government, aims to provide financial support to students in Magelang, with an annual distribution of Rp450 thousand (US$28.7) for elementary school students, Rp750 thousand (US$47.9) for junior high school students, and Rp1.8 million (US$115) for senior high school students.

President Jokowi expressed his belief that these amounts are sufficient to cover the necessary expenses and encouraged gratitude for the support provided. In 2023, the government successfully distributed Smart Indonesia assistance to 18 million students nationwide, spanning from Aceh to Papua. This year, the goal is to extend aid to a total of 18.6 million students.

The President urged beneficiary students to exercise prudence in utilizing the funds and to maintain a strong commitment to learning. He reminded them that the Smart Indonesia Program comprehensively covers the costs associated with school requirements. For those aspiring to pursue higher education, President Jokowi advised registering for the Smart Indonesia Card Program or proposing assistance from the Revolving Fund Management Agency.

Highlighting the success of the Smart Indonesia Card, President Jokowi disclosed that 960 thousand students have already benefited, enabling them to continue their studies at universities.

The government remains committed to fostering educational opportunities for students across all regions of Indonesia, and President Jokowi reiterated the importance of responsible financial management to ensure the sustained success of the Smart Indonesia Program.