During a dialogue with around 150 headmasters in Sintang, West Kalimantan, on Friday, Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Fajar Riza Ul Haq emphasized that genuine support from regional governments is key to realizing Indonesia's vision of equal access to educational services.
"The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education manages only 4 percent of the education funds allocated from the State Budget, with the remainder distributed to regions. Thus, the political will of regional governments is essential for implementing education policies," he stated, as quoted in a statement issued on Saturday.
He affirmed that President Prabowo Subianto had instructed the central and regional governments to work towards elevating the living standards of teachers.
"President Prabowo has made the government's intention clear, stating that we will provide economic assistance to teachers through various programs," Ul Haq remarked.
He emphasized the importance of forging collaboration among central, provincial, and district governments to identify effective solutions to educational challenges.
Meanwhile, Deputy Head of Sintang District, Melkianus, said that the deputy minister's initiative was proof of the central government's care for remote regions.
"Given its vast area, Sintang District requires support from the central government for its infrastructure and the well-being of teachers," he stated.
Rita Hastarita, Head of the Education Office of West Kalimantan, emphasized that the provincial government is ready to synergize with the central administration to realize equitable education services.
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Translator: Tri M, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Anton Santoso
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