DKI Students Delighted as Renovated School Offers a More Comfortable Learning Environment

JAKARTA — The change at SDN Pekayon 05 in Pasar Rebo, East Jakarta, has been striking for its pupils. The building, previously considered old and uncomfortable, has been transformed into a modern educational complex with far more complete facilities.

Raihan, a nine-year-old Year 3 pupil at SDN Pekayon 05, said he was happy with the changes.

“It used to have a paved court like that. The school was also in bad condition. Now it’s good,” Raihan said.

Rizal, also nine, shared the same sentiment. He said the most noticeable changes were not limited to the appearance of the building, but also included the facilities now available.

“There wasn’t a lift before, but now there is one, because the school has six floors. It used to be just one floor,” Rizal said.

The improved school grounds have also made sports activities more comfortable.

“Doing sports is more comfortable too, because it’s good,” he said.

Both pupils also thanked Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung for the refurbishment of their school.

“Thank you, Governor,” they said.

The upgrades at SDN Pekayon 05 are part of a comprehensive refurbishment carried out alongside SMPN 91 Jakarta, creating an integrated complex on Jalan Raya Bogor in Pasar Rebo.

Pramono inspected the completed refurbishment on Monday, 12 October 2026.

The two school buildings were previously more than 50 years old. A full refurbishment, with a contract value of Rp101.3 billion, has provided both schools with multi-storey buildings and more extensive facilities. The new buildings have been in use since the start of the 2026–2027 school year.

“In my view, this school is no less impressive than schools overseas. It has complete facilities, from lifts, a library and a canteen to well-equipped classrooms and sports facilities,” Pramono said.

The school complex also has disability-friendly access, a fire-protection system, a basketball court, a mini football pitch, a prayer room and green open space.

Pramono said vertical construction was one way for the Jakarta administration to make better use of limited school land in urban areas.

“Because the two schools are close to one another, they have been arranged as a more integrated whole. We want to ensure students have a learning environment that is safe, comfortable and inclusive,” he said.

The refurbishment has also changed the way lessons are organised at SMPN 91 Jakarta. Previously, classes were held in two shifts. Since the new building opened, all teaching has taken place in a single shift.

The change is seen as involving more than just a new building. Better-equipped classrooms have made learning hours more orderly and allowed educational facilities to be used more effectively.

Pramono also asked the Jakarta Education Office to ensure that all the new facilities are properly maintained.

“If educational facilities and infrastructure are not properly prepared, it is pointless. That is why we have asked the Education Office to ensure that the facilities built are used and maintained properly,” he said.