"There are no divisions between favorite and non-favorite schools, but in the country's science, technology, and the economic development, we have to build talents from every layer," Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Stella Christie, said here on Friday.
She emphasized that national talent development needs to pay attention to all layers, including talents at the top layer.
"So it is not about divisions, but how we can build the talents overall," she explained.
The plan for establishing the Garuda top-tier high schools, she explained, is based on President Prabowo Subianto's intention and efforts to accelerate the quality of the country's top talents, who require access to science and technology education.
"Therefore, Mr. Prabowo, ever since he became the President-elect in February (2024), has planned how to develop science and technology evenly and fairly by providing equitable access," Christie said.
She added that the most important principle of a top-tier high school is to provide access to science and technology.
"So that science and technology (development) is equitable and just for all levels of Indonesian society," she said.
Furthermore, she explained that the President has assigned her ministry to develop Garuda top-tier high schools, including the student admission system, teachers, curriculum, and facilities and infrastructure based on the principles of equity and justice.
Meanwhile, some regions, including Bangka Belitung, North Sulawesi, East Nusa Tenggara, and the Nusantara capital city (IKN), have been selected to be the first locations where Garuda top-tier high schools will be constructed.
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Translator: Sean M, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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