Ministry: New Student Admission System Builds Trust in Quality Education Services

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) has reported good practices in the implementation of the New Student Admission System (SPMB) for special needs schools (SLBN), state senior high schools (SMAN), and state vocational high schools (SMKN) in Padang, West Sumatra, describing the process as accountable, transparent, and inclusive. Director General of Secondary and Special Education Tatang Muttaqin emphasised that public trust in SPMB is built through good service, open communication, and selection processes that comply with regulations. “SPMB is the gateway to education services. Therefore, all education units must ensure the admission process is conducted openly, clearly, and inclusively. The implementation of a welcoming SPMB is not only a process of admitting prospective new students, but also the first gateway to a positive experience for students and parents in obtaining quality education,” Tatang said in a written statement in Jakarta on Monday. He added that the good practices demonstrated by schools in Padang show that SPMB is not merely a selection process. Meanwhile, Annisa Fitria, a teacher at SMKN 6 Padang and a member of the SPMB committee, said her school ensures that all registration information is openly accessible to the public while also providing guidance for prospective students who still need direction in choosing their area of expertise. “Administratively, the implementation of SPMB at SMKN 6 Padang ran smoothly. The school strives to provide services that can assist parents and prospective students. However, our homework is guiding prospective students, as many are hesitant when choosing between the two skill concentrations listed on their registration form,” said Annisa Fitria.