People's School saves orphaned child who dropped out and had a penchant for brawling

Jakarta (ANTARA) - At the age of 74, Ibu Welas can no longer sell vegetables door-to-door as she once did, but one thing she still holds dear is hope: the future of her grandson, Julio.

Julio has not had an easy life. Since the age of one, he has been without a father, who died from a rat virus disease after cleaning a drain. Since then, Julio has been raised by his grandmother in Kampung Kedung Tungkul, Mojosongo, Jebres, Surakarta, amid the family’s economic hardships.

His education journey was interrupted. After attending school up to third grade of primary school, Julio chose to stop. His days were spent more outside the home, socialising freely, and even getting involved in delinquent behaviour, such as throwing stones and carrying sharp weapons with his friends.

This situation worried his grandmother. Despite all the limitations, she tried to find a way for her grandson to return to education. Eventually, Julio was enrolled in Sekolah Rakyat, a free boarding school initiated by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto for children from extremely poor families.

Changes began to appear. Julio, who was once known to be difficult to manage, now shows a much calmer attitude. He has returned to enjoying the learning process and even shows a warmer emotional closeness with his grandmother.

“I’m happy (that Julio is at Sekolah Rakyat) because he can hug, embrace, and kiss me. Julio said, ‘Grandma, I’m happy; at home, I’m often scolded. At school, I’m never scolded,’” said Welas, quoting Julio.

For Ibu Welas, Sekolah Rakyat is not just a place to learn, but also a safe space for her grandson to grow. Moreover, the absence of daily costs is a great relief. Previously, Julio often asked for Rp15,000 to Rp20,000 every day, which was a burden on the family.

Now, hope is growing again. Ibu Welas does not ask for much. She only wants Julio to be a good child and able to live a decent life.

“I want him to be smart and my grandson to be a good person. Not neglected. I’m old. Whenever I’m called by the Almighty, please take care of my grandson Julio. Be good there. Become a good person,” the grandmother hoped softly.

Amid limitations and advancing age, she continues to pray that prayer.

“Thank you, Mr Prabowo. My grandson can go to school at Sekolah Rakyat. Thank you very much. May my grandson become a person with a good life,” said Welas.

For Julio and his grandmother, Sekolah Rakyat is not just a place of learning, but a turning point that saves the direction of the grandson’s life.