Private Sector Appreciation: Minister of Primary and Secondary Education States Education is More Than Just Building Schools
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu’ti, has expressed his appreciation for the Pelita Harapan Education Foundation (YPPH) for its continuous contribution to the development of education in Indonesia, both through the physical construction of schools and the development of student character. He noted that YPPH’s commitment to building and developing educational units is a vital part of the effort to prepare a superior and character-driven future generation.
“Education is about human investment. It is not just about building schools physically, but more importantly, it is about building the character of our generation and building a strong nation,” Minister Mu’ti stated in Jakarta on Wednesday. He added that schools must serve as unifying institutions rather than divisive ones. Consequently, his ministry remains committed to encouraging schools to become a ‘meeting point’ and a ‘melting point’ for students from various backgrounds.
“Children from various walks of life meet in classrooms, and through quality interaction processes, they build character while strengthening their Indonesian identity. Schools must be institutions that strengthen Indonesianness and reinforce the bonds of humanity among us,” Mu’ti said. He also highlighted the challenges of education in the digital era, which demands a balance between scientific mastery and the strengthening of spiritual values. According to him, technological progress must be balanced with character formation so that the younger generation is not only intellectually superior but also possesses moral resilience.
“Knowledge can provide answers, but faith provides choices. Technology helps us understand many things, but life values guide us to use that knowledge for the benefit of others and humanity,” he said. On the same occasion, YPPH Executive Director Stephanie Riady stated that human character remains the primary foundation of education amidst rapid technological advancement. “Technology can help find answers, but character helps determine the right choices. Education must shape a generation capable of thinking critically, leading with integrity, serving with compassion, and using their knowledge to bring good to others,” she said. Through the development of Sekolah Pelita Harapan, the foundation hopes that more Indonesian students will access quality educational services that develop not only academic abilities but also strengthen character, leadership, and human values as preparation for the future.