Minister of Basic and Secondary Education Assesses Second Day of SMP Academic Ability Test in Surabaya as Running Smoothly

Surabaya (ANTARA) - Minister of Basic and Secondary Education (Mendikdasmen) Abdul Mu’ti assessed that the implementation of the Academic Ability Test (TKA) for junior secondary school (SMP) level on the second day in Surabaya, East Java, on Tuesday, ran smoothly. “I had a chance to dialogue with the students, and they appeared very enthusiastic. Even when I asked about the questions, they said the questions were relatively easy,” said the Minister after inspecting the TKA at SMPN 1 Surabaya. He viewed the positive response from participants as an indication that the TKA serves not only as an academic measurement tool but also as a spark for students’ learning enthusiasm. “They hope the TKA continues to be held because it is felt to provide benefits, both in improving academic abilities and as preparation for continuing education to higher levels,” he said. The inspection also covered the readiness of facilities and infrastructure, from examination rooms to computer laboratories, which were ensured to operate optimally. “The arrangement of rooms, computer readiness, and other technical aspects have been well prepared. I am confident that the TKA is an important part in realising quality education for all,” he emphasised. The results of the TKA implementation will serve as the basis for government evaluation in formulating education policies at the national and regional levels. “For the SMP level, the questions are prepared by the central and provincial governments, allowing measurement of students’ abilities at the provincial level, particularly in East Java. Meanwhile, for primary schools, the questions are prepared by district/city governments so that achievements can be measured at the local level,” he said. Nationally, the TKA implementation is said to have run smoothly and is expected to become the initial foundation for improving education quality while nurturing students’ motivation and self-confidence. The Minister also emphasised the importance of honesty as part of character building for students. “The TKA is expected not only to be an academic measurement tool but also a means to instil values and shape students’ personalities,” he stated. Regarding evaluation, the government will conduct a comprehensive assessment after the entire series of TKA is completed across all education levels. Furthermore, the TKA is now beginning to be integrated into the national education system, including in the selection for the achievement pathway in the New Student Admission System (SPMB). “Previously, academic assessments were only based on report cards; now they are supplemented with TKA scores as part of efforts to present a more inclusive and fair system,” he said. Meanwhile, the Head of the Surabaya City Education Office, Febrina Kusumawati, ensured that the TKA implementation in the City of Heroes has run smoothly since the first day. “He was present since the morning and directly dialogued with the students. They appeared happy and enthusiastic, even as if they missed the evaluation atmosphere like before. Interestingly, the students participated in the TKA without feeling forced,” said Febri. Febri added that Minister Abdul Mu’ti assessed that this condition could serve as material for evaluating students’ focus and time management. “The TKA does not determine graduation. Graduation remains the authority of the school through the learning process. However, TKA scores will be an added value, especially for the achievement pathway in SPMB,” she emphasised. The Principal of SMP Negeri 19 Surabaya, Eko Widayani, stated that the inaugural TKA implementation was positively welcomed by students in a conducive examination atmosphere. “The students welcomed it very well. We strive to create a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable atmosphere. Hopefully, this becomes an initial step to strengthen the quality of Indonesian education,” she said.