UAN PKPPS Wustha Begins, Pesantren Diplomas Recognised by the State Equivalent to Junior High School
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The National Final Examination (UAN) for Equivalent Education in Salafiyah Pesantren (PKPPS) at the Wustha level for the 2025/2026 academic year began on Monday, simultaneously affirming that pesantren education holds national legitimacy with valid diplomas.
Director General of Islamic Education at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Amien Suyitno, emphasised that graduates of PKPPS at the Wustha level are equivalent to SMP or MTs graduates, enabling them to continue to higher levels, whether to MA or SMA.
According to him, strengthening the evaluation system through UAN PKPPS is an important part in ensuring the quality and standards of pesantren graduates remain maintained.
“Through this examination, we ensure that santri not only excel in mastering religious knowledge but also meet nationally recognised competency standards,” said Suyitno.
Director of Pesantren, Basnang Said, explained that PKPPS is an equivalent education pathway designed specifically for salafiyah pesantren, while still preserving the uniqueness of the yellow book-based curriculum.
“PKPPS serves as an important bridge between pesantren traditions and the national education system. Santri still study the yellow books but also receive formal recognition from the state,” said Basnang.
According to him, the implementation of UAN PKPPS is not only an academic evaluation process but also a form of state affirmation of pesantren’s contributions to the national education system.
Basnang invited all pesantren and santri to participate in the examination with full responsibility and uphold the values of honesty.
“Integrity is the spirit of pesantren education. Therefore, we hope the entire examination process runs honestly, orderly, and smoothly,” he said.
The UAN PKPPS for the 2025/2026 Academic Year is followed by 69,176 santri nationwide and is conducted in stages.
The Wustha level takes place from 20 April to 2 May 2026, following the Ulya level on 6–19 April 2026, and will continue with the Ula level from 4–16 May 2026. All examinations are conducted using Computer Based Test (CBT).