Hundreds of Students Begin Orientation at 'Sekolah Rakyat', Starting Academic Year with Hope

Hundreds of new students participated in the School Environment Introduction Period (MPLS) at Sekolah Rakyat in South Jakarta on Monday (13/7/2026), marking the beginning of the 2026-2027 academic year. Accompanied by their parents, the new pupils completed administrative procedures, registration, received school uniforms, and were introduced to school regulations. This year, the school accepted 240 students from across Jakarta, comprising 60 primary level, 90 lower secondary level, and 90 upper secondary level students. The orientation is designed as an adaptation phase before formal teaching and learning activities commence, helping students adjust physically, mentally, socially, and academically. The Sekolah Rakyat programme is expected to expand equal access to education while serving as an effort to break the chain of poverty through learning. For many students, the opportunity to study at Sekolah Rakyat represents a path to pursue dreams that were previously deferred due to family economic constraints. The government has stated it will increase the Sekolah Rakyat quota in Jakarta to 1,000 students so that more children from underprivileged families can obtain proper access to education. The programme not only provides free education but is also designed to build character, discipline, and develop the potential and talents of students.