"As of today, there are 45 sites in the first phase (of the program) that are ready to carry out student registrations," he added in a statement released by his ministry here on Friday.
He informed that the 45 locations are among the 211 sites proposed for Sekolah Rakyat development.
At least 164 of these locations were proposed by regional governments, consisting of 38 sites with buildings and 126 sites with land.
The 45 sites that are ready for the first phase, which commences in July 2025, are owned by the Ministry of Social Affairs. They include social centers, a social worker education polytechnic (Poltekesos), and a professional training and education center (Pusdiklatprof).
Related news: Indonesian govt identifies 200 sites for Sekolah Rakyat schools
However, Minister Yusuf said that this number can change because his ministry is open to various parties proposing strategic locations for Sekolah Rakyat development.
Furthermore, he explained that the Ministry of Public Works will conduct feasibility surveys at the proposed locations.
"Now, it is just a matter of surveying the feasibility of these points. This will take some time," he said.
The Sekolah Rakyat program covers elementary, junior high, and high school levels. Based on the boarding school concept, the program is intended for prospective students from poor families.
Sekolah Rakyat will use the national curriculum and its teaching staff will be recruited from graduates of the Teacher Professional Education (PPG) program.
Related news: Banten: Free school program starts in new academic year
Translator: Hana, Kenzu
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
