“The SMPN 1 Sambong building is an old structure built in 1983, so several parts of the construction are starting to deteriorate and require immediate attention. This is an example of a long-standing school, I was in the second cohort here,” Darto said during the visit on Saturday.
He highlighted damage to the roof, ceiling, and other areas that pose safety risks to students and staff.
“The collapsed roof and ceiling are very dangerous, so I’ve requested a thorough check of all classrooms,” he added.
Darto noted that similar issues could exist in other older schools, stressing the need for comprehensive safety inspections nationwide.
He emphasized that the visit reflects the government’s commitment to providing adequate educational facilities, noting that school revitalization is a priority program under President Prabowo Subianto.
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He expressed hope that revitalization will create safe, comfortable, and culturally supportive learning environments, including compliance with the standards.
He also underscored the importance of improving school sanitation as part of efforts to provide healthy learning facilities. SMPN 1 Sambong is the only junior high school in the district, making its revitalization crucial for maintaining local education services.
Darto outlined the national school revitalization program for 2026, which initially includes 11,446 schools awaiting budget approval.
Following verification and validation processes, physical renovations are targeted to begin between February and March 2026, with completion expected in June 2026, within an estimated 90-100 days.
Principal Wiwik Sulistiyowati reported that building damage has been occurring for several years, with the most severe incident on December 15, 2025, when the roof and ceiling collapsed.
Classes have since been temporarily relocated to available spaces such as laboratories.
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Translator: Akhmad, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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