Abdul Mu'ti: SPMB Realises Inclusive and Equitable Education

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Minister of Basic and Secondary Education (Mendikdasmen), Abdul Mu’ti, stated that the Student Admission System (SPMB) policy starting in 2025 is designed to broaden access to inclusive education for all Indonesian children through four admission pathways. At the launch of the 2026 Inclusive Education Training Programme at SMPN 16 Jakarta on Monday, the Minister emphasised that this scheme, comprising domicile, achievement, affirmative, and transfer pathways, aims to ensure no child is left behind in receiving quality educational services, regardless of their background or conditions. In particular, the affirmative pathway serves as the government’s spearhead in embracing vulnerable groups. This pathway is intended for students with special needs as well as those from families with economic limitations to ensure they still receive equal educational rights. “Through the affirmative pathway, we open wider opportunities for children with special needs and those from impoverished families to continue being served in education,” said Abdul Mu’ti. Besides physical and economic access, the Minister affirmed that the new system carries a mission of social and religious inclusion. Schools are expected to become miniatures of Indonesia’s diversity, where differences are managed as assets rather than barriers to interaction. Abdul Mu’ti explained that future inclusive education must go beyond physical and mental boundaries. Such inclusivity must touch on other aspects of exceptionality, including cultural, religious differences, and economic conditions that often hinder school access. Regarding the challenge of a shortage of support teachers, the Ministry of Education is striving to train professional support teachers for students with special needs through the Inclusive Education Training Programme, viewed as a strategic solution to meet the need for educators with specific competencies and dedication. “This breakthrough programme can become a quick solution so that the shortage of support teachers can be fulfilled as best as possible,” the Minister added. This step also realises the fourth Astacita of President Prabowo Subianto in building strong human resources through science and technology. For that reason, Abdul Mu’ti called on all levels of society to collaborate in achieving national educational progress that is inclusive.