Social Affairs Minister Urges People's School Principals to Boost Capacity

Social Affairs Minister (Mensos) Saifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul) has stated that the Ministry of Social Affairs will provide ongoing support to principals in the running of Sekolah Rakyat (People’s Schools). The assurance was given by Gus Ipul whilst delivering an online address to 191 People’s School principals during the Consolidation and Briefing Meeting for the 2026/2027 Academic Year in Kulon Progo, Special Region of Yogyakarta. The briefing aimed to prepare principals to lead educational units focused on academics, character building, and developing students’ potential. “Problems must be faced; do not be afraid of a lack of problems. It is a sign that the country is entrusting something great to all of us,” said Gus Ipul on Tuesday (7/7).

Gus Ipul emphasised that the success of Sekolah Rakyat is measured by the school’s ability to build a system that encourages the development of students’ potential. He believes every child has different potential, and principals are expected to map and develop this, partly through the implementation of 24-hour boarding education. People’s School principals are encouraged to have a grand mentality, be brave in making decisions, be visionary, and be capable of building systems. Moreover, all principals will receive the same support in terms of resources, guidelines, and budget. Gus Ipul reminded that improving the quality of Sekolah Rakyat must start with improving the quality of the principals themselves. He asked the principals to build personal discipline before demanding discipline from students, to be honest in conveying various issues, to remain calm under pressure, and to be brave in self-evaluation.

During the same occasion, the results of a survey of 174 People’s School principals were presented, depicting optimism and challenges ahead of the Student Orientation Period for the 2026/2027 Academic Year. The survey showed the principals’ mental readiness level reached 8.95 out of 10, whilst confidence in decision-making stood at 8.74 out of 10. A total of 72 per cent of respondents viewed their assignment at Sekolah Rakyat as a motivating challenge, and 94 per cent stated they already have a long-term leadership orientation as builders of the education system. Regarding readiness for the student orientation period, 18 per cent of principals stated they were fully prepared, 26 per cent were somewhat prepared, 38 per cent were still facing significant obstacles, and 17 per cent admitted they were not ready. The principals also conveyed several needs, including additional teachers and education staff (77 per cent), direct assistance from the central training and education centre (61 per cent), budget clarity (56 per cent), and further training and briefing (48 per cent). On the ground, issues such as water supply availability at one permanent school, the finalisation of employment status and principal appointment decrees in several locations, and the completion of some permanent building construction were also noted.

Gus Ipul expressed his appreciation to the principals for their work since the pioneering stage. He stated that they are part of the history of building education for children from poor and extremely poor families. “We are not just carrying out a task. We are becoming the owners of Sekolah Rakyat’s history. Carry it out with professionalism and empathy. Adhere to the established standards without waiting to be reminded, because that is an honour for your schools,” he said. As a form of support, Gus Ipul assured that the Ministry of Social Affairs will continue to fight for the improved welfare of the principals, teachers, and education staff of Sekolah Rakyat. “We will continue to fight so that the principals, teachers, and education staff of Sekolah Rakyat receive better performance allowances. We understand that this is a boarding school with different responsibilities. Therefore, we will continue to strive for regulatory changes and budget support so that your welfare continues to improve,” concluded Gus Ipul.