Education Minister Explains Why WFH Does Not Apply to Schools

The government’s Work From Home (WFH) policy currently in place does not apply to the education sector, particularly school activities.

This was affirmed by the Minister of Basic and Secondary Education (Mendikdasmen) Abdul Mu’ti, after attending a halalbihalal event in Pekalongan Regency, Central Java, on Friday (3/4/2026). He explained that the teaching and learning process will continue as usual, without any policy changes to distance learning.

“Work from home does not apply to schools. So schools will still operate as normal. Since the schools are open, the teachers will also attend as usual,” said Abdul Mu’ti.

Abdul Mu’ti stated that the WFH policy currently enforced by the government is more targeted at office institutions, not educational ones. Even within the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education itself, WFH implementation only applies at certain times, such as on Fridays.

“The WFH policy is not due to an economic crisis, but rather as a government effort to encourage a frugal lifestyle and efficient energy use. Economically, we are still very strong and growing. So WFH is not because of a crisis, but to cultivate frugal living and wise use of energy sources in line with the President’s directives,” he stressed.

Abdul Mu’ti also highlighted the difference between the concepts of work from home and work from anywhere. In WFH, employees still work from home and must be ready to be called to the office at any time, whereas work from anywhere allows employees to work from any location without restrictions.

“If it’s work from home, employees remain at their homes and work according to their main duties and functions. There are reporting mechanisms and responsibilities that must be carried out,” explained Abdul Mu’ti.

Regarding the education sector, Abdul Mu’ti reiterated that there is no change in the learning scheme. Students and educators will continue activities at school as usual.

“If schools are still open, there is no WFH for teachers or students,” he stated.

In addition, Abdul Mu’ti mentioned the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, which will continue to run according to the school schedule. The programme will only be implemented on active learning days.

“If school is off, MBG is not distributed. But if school is open, it will continue,” he concluded.