Minister of Basic and Middle Education ensures digitalisation programme reaches remote schools

Sorong, Southwest Papua - Minister of Basic and Middle Education Abdul Mu’ti has assured that the education digitalisation programme will continue to expand, reaching even remote schools, including those without electricity or internet access. The minister stated the government is committed to providing equitable technology-based education services nationwide, including in the most underserved regions. ‘For all schools, the program aims for one device per school by 2025, and hopefully three by 2026,’ he said during a visit to Sorong in Southwest Papua on Tuesday. He explained that each school will receive support from multiple internet service providers to strengthen network connectivity and facilitate digital learning. ‘First category: schools with existing electricity and internet, where the focus is on optimising technology use,’ he said. ‘Second category: schools with electricity but no internet. The government will assist by partnering with Starlink to simplify network installation,’ he added. ‘Third category: schools lacking both electricity and internet. These will receive internet access and solar-powered electricity.’ ‘For schools without electricity or internet, the package includes internet connectivity and dedicated solar panels for power,’ he stated. The programme, which began in 2025, is being gradually expanded. Beyond infrastructure, the ministry is also providing teacher training to effectively utilise digital tools. ‘Training is crucial to ensure devices and internet services are not just facilities but integral to teaching and learning,’ Mu’ti said. ‘We train teachers to use devices and internet effectively to enhance learning quality,’ he added. The government has also distributed laptops to schools to help teachers download and store learning materials, reducing reliance on internet connectivity. ’ digitalisation of education is a strategic step to improve learning quality and ensure equal access across Indonesia,’ he emphasised.