Deputy Minister of Basic and Secondary Education: Shaping an Ecologically Aware Young Generation in Central Kalimantan

Palangkaraya (ANTARA) - Deputy Minister of Basic and Secondary Education (Wamendikdasmen), Fajar Riza Ul Haq, has requested that education in Central Kalimantan Province (Kalteng) shapes the younger generation not only to be intelligent but also to possess a strong ecological awareness.

“For Central Kalimantan, this role becomes even more strategic. This region is not only a centre of growth but also a guardian of important ecosystems for the sustainability of Indonesia’s environment, even the world,” he stated during the series of commemorations for National Education Day, Earth Day, and Regional Autonomy Day at the yard of the Central Kalimantan Governor’s Office in Palangkaraya on Saturday.

Education must not be separated from the reality of the global crises faced today. Climate change, environmental degradation, and resource crises are real challenges that will be inherited by the younger generation.

“Our strength, our planet theme reaffirms that the future of the Earth is in all our hands,” he said.

The Deputy Minister emphasised that education must take a more strategic role in instilling ecological awareness from an early age, integrating environmental issues into the learning world, developing learning processes, and encouraging real actions in the school environment.

“Starting from small things, such as managing waste, saving energy, to greening the environment. Every small step taken today determines the quality of life for future generations,” he added.

Previously, Central Kalimantan Governor Agustiar Sabran emphasised that the provincial government always aligns regional programmes with the central government to ensure optimal implementation that has a real impact on society.

Although there is currently a budget reduction due to efficiency policies, the provincial government still places the education sector as a priority in regional development.

“We do not want to see any children of Central Kalimantan who cannot go to school or attend university. Therefore, education remains the top priority in regional development,” he said.