DPR Member Supports Government's Decision to Maintain Face-to-Face Learning

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Reni Astuti, a member of Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives, supports the government’s move to maintain face-to-face learning, rather than implementing distance learning (PJJ) to save energy amid global dynamics.

According to Reni, face-to-face learning remains the most optimal method in supporting the teaching and learning process to date, as direct interaction between teachers and students plays an important role in character formation, material understanding, and social development of students.

“Face-to-face school remains the best choice at this time because it provides a more complete learning experience, both academically and in character building,” she said in Jakarta on Thursday.

She stated this in response to news circulating regarding the government’s policy on online schooling that was once proposed some time ago.

“In making policies, in this case the education sector, we must not make hasty decisions. All policies must undergo in-depth studies so as not to cause negative impacts on students,” said Reni.

Therefore, she supports the cancellation of the distance learning initiative carried out by the Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu’ti, on Wednesday (25/3).

She reminded that innovation in education is still needed, but it must be implemented in a measured manner and not sacrifice the quality of learning.

She encouraged the government to involve various stakeholders, including educators, parents, and education experts, in every policy formulation.

She hopes that every education policy taken truly sides with the best interests of students and is able to sustainably improve the quality of national education.

“The main goal of education is to produce superior generations. Therefore, every policy must be truly mature and oriented towards the future of our children,” she said.

Previously, the Minister of Basic and Secondary Education (Mendikdasmen) Abdul Mu’ti emphasised that teaching and learning activities would continue at school after the Eid al-Fitr holiday series.

He said the proposal for hybrid teaching and learning activities (online and offline) was cancelled considering the academic aspects and character education strengthening for students.

“As per the results of the inter-ministerial meeting on 23 March, learning in schools will be carried out as usual with considerations of academics and character education strengthening,” he said.