"You can see that the locations selected for new Garuda Schools are based on needs, and they are being built in the eastern regions," she remarked during a working meeting with Commission X of the House of Representatives (DPR) here on Thursday.
She explained that the Garuda School program is implemented through two schemes: Garuda Transformation Schools, which utilize existing educational infrastructure, and the new Garuda Schools.
Christie underlined that new Garuda Schools are being established to meet the demand for quality education in remote areas in order to produce high-quality human resources.
"We see the need for establishing new Garuda Schools because many remote areas of Indonesia lack sufficient access to high-quality education," she pointed out.
Meanwhile, she noted that Garuda Transformation Schools are designed to optimize the performance of existing high-achieving schools across the country.
"We have seen many good schools with strong potential and achievements, which can still be further optimized. That is why we also have a strategy to enhance schools that already exist. This is what we refer to as Garuda Transformation Schools," she elaborated.
The deputy minister further noted that Garuda Schools aim to support 11th and 12th grade students through pre-university programs focused on maximizing their potential, rather than changing the entire curriculum.
According to Christie, this program is based on three core principles: equalizing access, creating an incubator for the nation’s future leaders, and making schools places that not only excel academically but also contribute to their surrounding communities.
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Translator: Sean, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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