Minister to Hold Special Meeting as Data Shows State Primary Schools Lack Pupils

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) is currently collecting data on state primary schools (SDN) with fewer than 60 pupils, following reports of declining enrolment in various regions. Minister Abdul Mu’ti stated on Friday (17/7/2026) that the ministry is actively mapping the number of affected schools. He has informally discussed the issue of falling pupil numbers with Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian and confirmed that a special meeting will be convened to address the phenomenon.

Several state primary schools across Java have reported a severe lack of new pupils for the current academic year. At SDN Purwoyoso 01 in Ngaliyan, Semarang, Central Java, only three new pupils were enrolled, down from the five who initially registered online. Despite the low numbers, the school welcomed the children with a circus-themed orientation, complete with a clown mascot. Headteacher Hajar Riatiani affirmed the school’s commitment to providing a festive welcome regardless of class size.

A similar situation unfolded at SDN 2 Cepokosawit in Boyolali, Central Java, where a girl named Khanza was the sole new pupil. Class teacher Andiyani Mudrikah admitted to initial feelings of inadequacy but stressed the school’s determination to provide optimal education and service to the single student. In Tulungagung, East Java, SDN 2 Plandaan received only two new pupils, one of whom arrived late on the first day wearing casual clothes and sandals, accompanied by his grandparents.