English to Become a Compulsory Subject for Primary School Students Starting in 2027

English Will Become a Compulsory Subject for Primary School Students Starting in 2027

• Press Bureau of the Presidential Secretariat

East Lombok, VIVA – The Minister of Basic and Secondary Education (Mendikdasmen), Abdul Mu’ti, will introduce English as a compulsory subject for students in primary schools (SD) starting in the 2027 academic year.

“Starting in 2027, English will become a compulsory subject from grade 3 SD,” said Mendikdasmen Abdul Mu’ti during the inauguration of the Education Revitalisation Programme at the State Vocational High School (SMKN) 1 Sikur in East Lombok, Sunday.

He stated that the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) is currently preparing various supporting aspects to ensure that this policy can be implemented effectively.

One of the main steps being taken is to organise English training for primary school teachers.

“We are currently preparing how to implement this programme through training programmes for SD teachers in English,” said Mendikdasmen Abdul Mu’ti.

Mendikdasmen said that this policy is part of Kemendikdasmen’s efforts to improve the quality of education and equip students with 21st-century skills from an early age.

“With earlier mastery of English, it is hoped that Indonesian students will be able to compete on the global stage,” said Mendikdasmen Abdul Mu’ti.

Mendikdasmen emphasised that preparing human resources, especially teachers, is a top priority before this policy is implemented nationally.

“Training will be provided in stages to SD teachers throughout Indonesia,” said Mendikdasmen Abdul Mu’ti.

He affirmed that revitalisation and digitalisation are not the ultimate goals, but rather efforts to improve the quality of education services.

“Therefore, Kemendikdasmen is also focusing on improving the qualifications and competence of teachers,” said Mendikdasmen Abdul Mu’ti. (Ant)