Deputy Minister Atip Latipulhayat inspected teaching and learning activities at State Senior High School 12 (SMAN 12) Padang, one of the schools affected by floods and landslides that struck the province in late November 2025.
He said the visit marked the restart of education services in three provinces impacted by recent natural disasters, with Padang City a key focus.
Latipulhayat’s visit began with a flag-raising ceremony at the school, where he acted as the ceremony supervisor.
In remarks to students and teachers, he urged the school community not to lose motivation in the wake of the ecological disaster, stressing the importance of resilience and solidarity during recovery.
He said his presence at SMAN 12 Padang was not only to assess the school’s readiness to resume learning but also to provide moral support.
Latipulhayat encouraged students to view the disaster as a challenge to overcome rather than a setback, and to continue pursuing their educational goals despite the disruptions.
“We came to Padang to observe directly and ensure that learning activities are ready to proceed at the start of this year,” he said, adding that the government remains committed to restoring education services as quickly as possible in affected areas.
After the ceremony, the deputy minister toured the campus to inspect classrooms and other facilities damaged by floodwaters.
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education also distributed cash assistance of 15 million rupiah (about $960) each to affected senior high schools, junior high schools and elementary schools to support early recovery and repairs.
Government data as of Jan. 4 showed that 4,470 educational units across Sumatra were affected by disasters, with damage ranging from minor to severe.
Aceh Province recorded the highest number, with 2,756 schools impacted by floods and landslides, followed by North Sumatra with 1,213 schools and West Sumatra with 501.
Translator: Zulfikar, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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