North Maluku Governor Sherly Tjoanda, speaking in Ternate, said the vice president was impressed with the school’s facilities and infrastructure.
The People’s School program is a free boarding initiative designed to break the cycle of poverty by targeting children from low-income and extremely poor families.
It offers full support, including housing, meals, and an integrated curriculum that combines formal education with character development, vocational skills, and entrepreneurship training.
“From the dormitories and bathrooms to the dining rooms, everything is well-maintained and clean,” Sherly said.
She noted that while geographic isolation poses a serious challenge to education access in the archipelago, the determination of students to learn and pursue their dreams remains strong.
“This is the spirit the government under President Prabowo Subianto is committed to nurturing—that every Indonesian child deserves access to quality education, no matter where they live,” she added.
During his visit, Vice President Gibran toured school facilities including classrooms, dormitories, science and computer labs, dining halls, and a prayer room. All of which support the academic and daily needs of the students.
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Sarlina, a 10th-grade student, shared her appreciation for the opportunity to study at the school, despite missing her family.
“Thank you for creating this program,” she said.
The visit ended with speeches from students, including remarks by 10th-grader Caca Alisa Kasman and a poetry reading by fellow student Bayu.
A group photo session with students and teachers concluded the event in a warm, spirited atmosphere.
Vice President Gibran’s visit underscored the government’s commitment to expanding educational access across Indonesia’s vast and remote regions.
Through the People’s School program, the government hopes children in underserved areas can grow into capable, well-rounded individuals with equal opportunities to succeed.
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Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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