Gus Ipul Opens Second Wave of School Rakyat Orientation Across 65 Locations

A total of 65 School Rakyat (People’s School) sites simultaneously held the second wave of their School Environment Introduction Period (MPLS) on Friday (31/07/2026). Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf, known as Gus Ipul, officially opened this second wave virtually from Jakarta, while Deputy Social Affairs Minister Agus Jabo Priyont attended the opening in person at the Integrated School Rakyat (SRT) 1 in Wonosobo, Central Java.

In his address, Gus Ipul expressed his appreciation to governors, regents, mayors, and all local government elements for supporting the implementation of School Rakyat. This programme is a strategic initiative of President Prabowo Subianto, specifically designed for children from poor and extremely poor families. He noted that the programme aims to reach children who have previously been underserved by educational services, including those who have dropped out or never attended school.

“Data shows that more than four million school-aged children in Indonesia are not in school. These children are the intended beneficiaries of School Rakyat,” Gus Ipul stated in a written release on Friday.

He emphasised that the phased implementation of the orientation period across four waves was not due to government delays or unreadiness, but rather a precautionary measure to ensure all schools are fully prepared to receive students. He explained that three key factors were considered: the functional readiness of infrastructure, ensuring the safety and comfort of children as a top priority, and verifying the availability of basic utilities such as clean water, electricity, and sanitation.

Gus Ipul stated that this approach aligns with the principles of a safe and comfortable school culture as regulated by the Regulation of the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Number 12 of 2026. He also urged school principals and educators to ensure the orientation period remains a child-friendly space, free from the ‘three major sins’ of education: bullying, physical or sexual violence, and intolerance.

Furthermore, Gus Ipul emphasised that the orientation period is not merely an introduction to the school environment but a crucial moment to map the initial condition of every student. “The orientation is a moment to establish a baseline or ‘point zero’ for every child, ranging from physical health and psychological condition to their interests and talents. From this baseline, we can design the appropriate interventions so that every child develops according to their needs,” he said.

In addition to classroom learning, students at School Rakyat will receive mentorship from members of the Indonesian National Police (Polri) and the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) to build discipline, neatness, and the ability to manage dormitory life. Gus Ipul noted that their role is not as superiors, but as elder siblings helping to instil good habits from day one.

He also extended his gratitude to local governments for supporting the provision of land, healthcare workers, cleaning staff, school security, and guest teachers. He specifically commended social assistants who have conducted outreach to impoverished families in remote areas to ensure children can participate in the programme. He stressed that the Ministry of Social Affairs cannot work alone, as School Rakyat represents the collaborative effort between central and local governments to execute President Prabowo’s strategic programme.

Deputy Minister Agus Jabo Priyono reported that the opening was lively, with many enthusiastic parents accompanying their children. He also noted that students from Temanggung Regency are temporarily attending classes at SRT 1 Wonosobo until their permanent school facilities are ready.

During the virtual dialogue, East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa also reported on the readiness of the Integrated School Rakyat 1 in Malang Regency, which is now housed in a permanent building. She expressed her appreciation to President Prabowo, the Ministry of Social Affairs, and the Ministry of Public Works for their roles in developing School Rakyat, ensuring that children from the lowest economic deciles can access quality education.