Social Minister Asks People's School Principals to Prepare for New Student Intake
Social Minister Saifullah Yusuf, or Gus Ipul, along with Deputy Social Minister Agus Jabo Priyono, held a meeting with all principals of People’s Schools via Zoom in the context of a halalbihalal gathering and guidance session following the Eid al-Fitr holiday.
“I would like to extend Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah greetings to those celebrating. Alhamdulillah, we were able to pass through this Ramadan period with devotion, tranquillity, and a conducive atmosphere, so that its implementation nationally proceeded well. Although there were differences in the date of Eid, we understand this as part of Allah SWT’s mercy,” said Gus Ipul.
Gus Ipul also invited everyone to maintain the spirit of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr in their work, namely by being more attentive to those who need assistance, attention, or support.
In addition, he asked all school principals to create written plans regarding the upcoming intake of new students. This is particularly important for the 63 locations that were previously scheduled to operate in July 2025.
“Three months from now, please prepare it well (for the new student intake),” he added.
He also urged them to conduct evaluations of the learning that has taken place, starting from evaluations in the areas of health, academics, physical and mental well-being. This includes evaluations in the human resources sector, covering educational staff, teachers, and even security personnel.
“Conduct evaluations on everything. Report to us so that we can analyse and provide solutions. What are the shortcomings and what are the strengths,” he stated.
Gus Ipul also advised that students who require special attention, and may even need a rehabilitation process, should be handled at the Ministry of Social Affairs’ centres. In this way, no students will be sent home or returned to their families.
“We want children who cannot participate in the teaching and learning process for various reasons to be able to undergo rehabilitation at the nearest centres. So, no need to worry, dear principals; report it, and we will find solutions. Remember that their backgrounds vary, and not all are linear,” he explained.
Furthermore, Gus Ipul emphasised the need to further strengthen achievements in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
“Special efforts are needed from school principals to ensure that academic achievements in the future become increasingly prominent,” said Gus Ipul. While achievements in arts, culture, sports, and languages that have been widely accomplished by People’s School students must continue.
Gus Ipul also hoped that all People’s Schools would have reliable extracurricular activities, so that during visits, they could be used as one of the highlights to welcome guests.
Gus Ipul stressed that People’s Schools do not open registrations; instead, there is only outreach.
“So, those in the data (DTSEN) will be reached out to, then there will be parties from the Social Services Office, determined by the Regional Head, signed, and then designated as People’s School students,” he clarified.
In the meeting, reports were also given regarding the return of People’s School students after the Eid holiday. One of them came from the Principal of SRMP 15 Mojokerto, Heri Susanto, who reported that all his students had returned to school.
He also shared testimonials from students’ parents who were very pleased that their children were attending People’s School because they were provided with excellent facilities. This has generated enthusiasm from their neighbours when these students return home.
“So many are asking how to enter People’s School; everyone wants to join,” said Heri.