Transmigration Minister M. Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanagara stated in Jakarta on Monday that the development of these schools is a strategic step to support human resource development in transmigration areas.
He expressed hope that People's Schools in transmigration areas would help communities in need gain access to education for their children.
He explained that the free boarding schools would combine the national curriculum with the four main pillars for student character development: leadership, skills, nationalism, and religious values.
"The boarding school concept is not just about expanding access to education but also about providing a safe learning environment and fostering strong character," he stated.
Construction of the pilot projects for those schools would begin in Wamena and Yahukimo, Highland Papua Province, and East Sumba in East Nusa Tenggara Province.
Velix Vernando Wanggai, Director General of Economic Development and Empowerment of Transmigration Communities at the Ministry of Transmigration, stated that People's Schools would serve as centers for cultivating superior human resources ready to compete at the national and global levels.
"We want to nurture a generation that is not only intelligent in the classroom but also possesses life skills, a strong fighting spirit, and solid morals. They must become future leaders capable of developing their villages and inspiring their nation," he remarked.
He also expressed hope that through cross-ministerial synergy, especially with the Ministry of Social Affairs, the People's Schools could become a driving force for productive, inclusive, and sustainable transmigration areas.
He expressed commitment to shaping transmigrant children into intelligent, intellectual, and skilled individuals with strong character and a nationalistic spirit, empowering them to lead towards Golden Indonesia 2045.
"Transmigration transformation is not just about building infrastructure but also developing people to be ready to lead the future," he added.
The Ministry of Social Affairs reported the existence of 100 People's Schools across Indonesia, accommodating over 9,700 students, as of August 2025.
Once facilities and infrastructure are completed, an additional 59 People's Schools will be opened by September 2025, accommodating more than 15 thousand students.
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Translator: Uyu Septiyati Liman, Martha Herlinawati Simanjunta
Editor: Primayanti
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