Speaking during a visit to SMA Negeri Siwalima Ambon on Wednesday, Hafid said the program reflects President Prabowo Subianto’s vision to build strong, character-based education aligned with digital transformation.
“This Garuda School initiative was initiated by President Prabowo, and today I am pleased to witness its implementation firsthand in Ambon,” Hafid said.
The Garuda School program aims to boost digital literacy and prepare students for a technology-driven future. It is part of Indonesia’s broader education reform to ensure equal access to quality learning, especially in remote and island regions.
“We want to produce more outstanding children—future-ready, globally competitive, with strong character. It’s not just about intelligence, but about values and resilience,” Hafid said.
Only 54 percent of Indonesia’s youth potential has been utilized, according to the ministry.
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To close the gap, the government is updating curricula, hiring more teachers, and modernizing learning environments. The ministry is also promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) education to support the development of digital talent.
In Ambon, local officials welcomed the program. Maluku Province’s Assistant for Government and People’s Welfare Djalaludin Salampessy said the initiative brings “new hope” to the region’s education sector.
SMA Negeri Siwalima is one of 12 public schools selected for transformation under the Garuda School program this year. The school will adopt a pre-university curriculum, operate as a boarding school, and combine modern facilities with local Maluku cultural elements.
By 2029, the government aims to transform 80 existing schools and build 20 new ones nationwide under the Garuda School program.
The initiative is part of a national strategy to cultivate high-quality human resources ready to compete in the global digital economy.
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Translator: Winda, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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