Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education Promotes Friendly School Orientation in Wakatobi

The first days of school are not just about adapting to a new classroom, teachers, and friends. The School Environment Introduction Period (MPLS) serves as a foundational step for recognising values, building a safe and comfortable culture, and shaping the character of students throughout their educational journey.

This commitment was demonstrated by Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education (Wamendikdasmen), Fajar Riza Ul Haq, during a visit to oversee the implementation of a friendly MPLS at SMP Negeri 1 Wangi-Wangi Selatan in Wakatobi Regency, Southeast Sulawesi, on Thursday. In a warm atmosphere, Fajar engaged 60 new students in discussions about their aspirations, their MPLS experiences, and the meaning of attending school. He emphasised that school is not only a place to gain knowledge but also to build character. “One of our goals in attending school is to train ourselves to be honest. Next is to become smart, develop talents, and achieve our dreams,” Fajar stated.

The spirit of creating a healthy learning environment at SMP Negeri 1 Wangi-Wangi Selatan is also reflected in its school culture. The institution integrates conservation education into its curriculum, encouraging students to bring their own drinking bottles, sort organic and inorganic waste, and process organic waste into compost. The head of the MPLS committee, Sariono, explained that all activities were structured based on the official MPLS guidelines issued by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education. He added that the school has adapted the programme to local characteristics through an ‘Eduwisata’ (educational tourism) curriculum that integrates environmental, cultural, and tourism aspects. The school declared itself a Child-Friendly School three years ago, committing all teachers to creating a learning environment free from hazing and all forms of violence.

For new students, the approach left a positive impression from their very first day. A new student, Citra Prisana Fitra Ode, shared that the warm atmosphere boosted her confidence. After the dialogue session, the Deputy Minister inspected the results of the School Revitalisation programme received by the school, which included the construction of a teacher administration room, toilets, and a School Health Unit (UKS) to support a more comfortable and proper learning environment.