inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Minister of Social Affairs, Saifullah Yusuf ensured that the implementation of Sekolah Rakyat (People's School) will continue to be strengthened as a model of social education for underprivileged families in various regions.
"This program is part of our effort to provide a more equitable education and instill social character in the younger generation. This program is still in its development stage, so there are many things that we need to tinker with, but we will gradually improve its implementation to improve it," explained the Minister of Social Affairs on Wednesday (10/22/2025).
He explained that currently, most learning activities are still taking place in temporary buildings. However, starting next year, the Ministry of Social Affairs is targeting the construction of permanent buildings using funds from the State Budget (APBN).
"The land will be prepared by local governments, including regents, mayors, and governors," said Minister Saifullah.
According to him, Sekolah Rakyat will be prioritized in areas with high poverty rates, based on the Ministry's data on beneficiary families (KPM).
This program also opens up opportunities for collaboration with local communities to expand the reach of inclusive and character-based education in underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) areas.
"The focus is on ensuring that children from underprivileged families can still receive a decent education and develop strong social character," said the Minister of Social Affairs.
In its implementation, the Ministry of Social Affairs places the crucial role of principals, teachers, dormitory guardians, and foster carers as key pillars of character development. Saifullah emphasized that all educators and caregivers at Sekolah Rakyat have undergone a rigorous selection and training process.
"We want to ensure that the three most feared issues in the world of education are eliminated: bullying, physical and sexual violence, and intolerance. These must be prevented together," conclude Minister Saifullah.
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