Govt to fund school renovation

JAKARTA: The Ministry of National Education plans to disburse funds this year for the reconstruction in less developed regions of 2,167 school buildings that have been damaged by natural disasters.

Indra Djati Sidi, director general for elementary and secondary education at the education ministry, said on Tuesday that the funds would be transferred directly to school committees.

Elementary schools are to receive Rp 50 million (US$5,630), junior high schools Rp 65 million, and senior high schools Rp 75 million.

To reduce renovation costs, Indra suggested that students and local residents take part in the reconstruction project.

It was expected that the students' participation in the project would improve their sense of belonging to their school, he added.

The ministry has funded the renovation of 234 school buildings and 870 school buildings in 2001 and 2002, respectively. -- Antara