Minister: No favouritism allowed in selecting Sekolah Rakyat students

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has declared that no form of favouritism will be tolerated in determining prospective students for Sekolah Rakyat (People’s Schools) in the upcoming academic year, as the programme is exclusively for underprivileged families. Speaking during an ‘Open House’ event with parents of prospective students at Sentra Abiseka Rumbai in Pekanbaru, Riau, on Sunday, Saifullah said this directive came from President Prabowo Subianto, who has forbidden any bribery, payment, or unofficial placement in selecting students. “There must be no favouritism. Ministers cannot, governors cannot, regents and mayors also cannot. Those who may attend school here are those who genuinely meet the criteria and are reached by our officers,” he stated. He explained that Sekolah Rakyat is intended for families who have been less fortunate and are economically disadvantaged, falling within Desil I or II of the welfare scale. The programme targets children who are not in school, have never attended, have dropped out, or are at risk of dropping out. Officers will reach out to them and discuss with their parents whether they agree to place their children in a Sekolah Rakyat. “Once they agree, the regional head will formalise the decision and forward it to the ministry for official designation as a Sekolah Rakyat student,” he added. He urged all parties involved in running the schools to work diligently, calling on headmasters, teachers, and other education staff to work with empathy, compassion, and heart, while adhering to the official guidelines provided. “I am pleased that over the 11-month learning process, we have seen progress in student achievement. At the very least, this can be seen from parents’ feedback and from observing that the students are becoming more confident, more disciplined, healthier, and, importantly, have the spirit to pursue their dreams,” Saifullah said.