Central Java's 'Sekolah Rakyat' Permanent Schools Set to Operate on 31 July 2026

The Provincial Government of Central Java has stated that the permanent Sekolah Rakyat (People’s Schools) in the region are ready to operate and commence learning activities starting 31 July 2026. “Conceptually, the permanent Sekolah Rakyat will begin operating on 31 July. Therefore, we are coordinating together to resolve various existing obstacles,” said Central Java Regional Secretary Sumarno in Semarang on Monday. The statement was made during a Coordination Meeting for Sekolah Rakyat and the Fulfilment of Permanent Sekolah Rakyat Assistant Teachers, attended by the Social Services of the relevant regencies/cities, the Ministry of Public Works as the project executor, and the heads of the Sekolah Rakyat. Sumarno noted that the provincial government, together with stakeholders, is continuing to finalise the operational plans. One of the emerging issues is the recruitment of students, particularly for the primary school level, which has not yet met the target. Authorities are also pushing to complete the construction of facilities and infrastructure, especially dormitories, as the permanent Sekolah Rakyat concept requires all students to reside on campus. “We are working together with colleagues from the Ministry of Public Works to ensure all facilities are ready before 31 July,” he said. He urged local governments to actively coordinate if there are shortages of basic facilities, such as clean water, suggesting temporary solutions like water tanks or other measures depending on field conditions. All local governments have been asked to assess buildings still under construction, focusing on aspects of comfort, security, and safety. As the programme is intended for children from underprivileged families, the quality of the facilities provided must not be substandard. Head of the Central Java Social Services Office, Imam Maskur, stated that the province currently has ten permanent Sekolah Rakyat and six pilot Sekolah Rakyat. He expressed hope that the coordination meeting would accelerate the resolution of various issues, allowing all Sekolah Rakyat to operate optimally in line with the target for the 2026/2027 academic year. Head of Sekolah Rakyat Menengah Atas (SRMA) 17 Surakarta, Septina Sintasari, mentioned that her institution has prepared 188 students to participate in teaching and learning activities in the inaugural academic year.