The Sekolah Rakyat Programme in Indonesia has successfully tackled the issue of education equity by offering free education to students from low-income families. This initiative not only grants access to education but also prioritizes character development in children, preparing them to actively contribute to national development while upholding moral values.
A recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between the Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA) and the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) to solidify their partnership in expanding educational opportunities for underprivileged individuals through the Sekolah Rakyat initiative. This collaboration includes social welfare services, sharing data on beneficiaries, and improving human resource capabilities in education and social sectors.
Ministers Saifullah Yusuf and Nasaruddin Umar highlighted the significance of Sekolah Rakyat in breaking the cycle of poverty through education and character building. Given the rising dropout rates and limited educational options for the less fortunate, programs like Sekolah Rakyat play a vital role in uplifting children from marginalized backgrounds and paving the way for a brighter tomorrow.
The Ministry of Social Affairs has implemented two models for establishing People’s Schools, focusing on either revitalizing existing assets or constructing new facilities to provide quality education settings for students. These initiatives align with the government’s objective of creating an inclusive education system that empowers children from disadvantaged families, contributing to Indonesia’s prosperity by 2045. Through programs like Sekolah Rakyat, the government aims to tackle the underlying causes of poverty and ensure all children have equal access to quality education.
