New Campus Construction to Meet Rising International Education Demand
The rising demand for international education in North Jakarta has prompted Sekolah Pelita Harapan (SPH) Pluit to expand its service capacity through the construction of a new permanent campus in the Pluit area. Targeted to begin operations in early 2028, the campus will increase the school’s capacity from approximately 500 students to 1,200 students.
The construction of the new campus was marked by a groundbreaking ceremony held in North Jakarta on Tuesday (2/6). Situated on approximately 2.2 hectares of land, the campus is planned for completion in December 2027 and will begin admitting students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 in January 2028.
Chairwoman of SPH, Aileen Riady, stated that the construction of the new campus is a form of the school’s long-term commitment to meeting evolving community needs. “This new campus reflects our long-term commitment to families in North Jakarta and the future generations of Indonesian and global leaders. We are building more than just classrooms; we are building a community where students can grow intellectually, creatively, spiritually, and relationally,” said Aileen.
She noted that the development of the Pluit area and its surroundings as a new centre for residential and economic activity has increased the need for access to international-standard education. The area has become a residence for many professional families, entrepreneurs, and international communities requiring global education options for their children.
The President of the Pelita Harapan Education Foundation (YPPH), Jonathan Parapak, revealed that the construction of this permanent campus is the result of a long struggle spanning over a decade. “It is a great blessing after years of planning, prayer, and perseverance; finally, all necessary permits have been completed so that construction can begin,” he said.
Jonathan explained that the SPH Pluit campus, which currently operates within the Lippo Mall Pluit complex, was originally designed as a temporary location while awaiting the permanent campus. However, a lengthy licensing process meant that the realisation of the construction could only take place after nearly 12 years.
The groundbreaking ceremony was also attended by the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu’ti. In his address, Abdul Mu’ti emphasised the importance of investing in education to build the quality of Indonesia’s human resources. “I agree that education is an investment in human resources. This is not just about the physical construction of schools, but more importantly, about shaping the character of future generations and ensuring our nation is built strongly,” he stated.
A similar view was expressed by the Founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of YPPH, James Riady. According to him, education plays a strategic role in shaping the quality of future national leadership. “Education is one of the most strategic ways to shape Indonesia’s future. SPH Pluit exists not only to pursue academic excellence but also to shape future leaders who possess wisdom, integrity, compassion, and faith,” said James.
In addition to expanding student capacity, the new campus is designed to support the development of various competencies increasingly required in the era of digital transformation and Artificial Intelligence (AI). The learning focus includes critical thinking, leadership, entrepreneurship, global communication, technological literacy, and readiness for the future changes in the global workforce.
Coordinator of SPH Schools, Sheldon North, said the new facilities will provide more space for the development of various academic and non-academic programmes. “SPH Pluit will continue to strengthen international academic standards while building a caring learning environment that is future-ready. This new campus allows us to expand opportunities in AI-based learning, entrepreneurship, arts, sports, and global leadership formation,” he noted.
The new SPH Pluit campus will feature a total building area of approximately 22,000 square metres across three floors. Various modern facilities will be available, ranging from science and technology laboratories, AI-based learning spaces, arts and music facilities, sports fields, a swimming pool, a gymnasium, a multi-purpose hall, to outdoor learning areas.
Executive Director of YPPH, Stephanie Riady, stated that the construction of the new campus is the result of collaboration between various parties who have supported the school’s journey over the years. “This project is the result of years of vision, perseverance, and collaboration. We are grateful for the support of parents, educators, government leaders, and all parties who have walked together towards this significant achievement,” she explained.