Forest Fire Haze: High Schools in Riau Implement Remote Learning from Home

The Riau Provincial Government, through the Department of Education, is implementing a Distance Learning (PJJ) system for high school and vocational school students in Pekanbaru. This decision follows recorded air quality levels falling into the unhealthy category due to haze from forest and land fires (Karhutla).

The Head of the Riau Education Department, Erisman Yahya, stated that the distance learning system will be in effect for three days, from Wednesday (16/09) to Friday (18/09). “It will apply for three days, from Wednesday to Friday. Therefore, high school students in Pekanbaru will return to face-to-face schooling next Monday, while continuing to monitor air quality developments,” said Erispend, on Thursday (17/09).

For teaching and learning activities in other regencies and cities, this policy may be implemented in accordance with the Riau Governor’s Circular Letter, number: 100.3.4/17/SETDA/2026, dated 24 August 2026. He explained that the decision for high schools, vocational schools, and special education schools (SLB) to conduct distance learning can be adjusted based on the policies of local regency/city heads and by studying BMKG data regarding air quality conditions.

“The adjustment following regency/city policies is necessary because conditions are not uniform across the Riau Province. Therefore, policies must be tailored to the air quality conditions in each specific area,” he noted.

He further stated that for high schools, vocational schools, and special education schools—both public and private—in Riau that continue to use face-to-face learning methods, students are urged to wear masks. “We also advise maintaining health and immunity by adopting a healthy lifestyle, ensuring adequate rest, and consuming enough water. If there is an urgent need that requires outdoor activities, masks must be worn,” he concluded.