Primary and Secondary Education Minister Abdul Mu’ti reaffirmed the government’s commitment at the launch of the 2026 Inclusive Education Training Program in Jakarta.
“It is vital that we fulfill our constitutional mandate to provide quality education for all, including specialized services for children with special needs,” he said.
Mu’ti warned that major challenges persist, particularly negative social stigma that continues to marginalize children with disabilities.
He said misconceptions remain widespread, with some communities still viewing such conditions as a source of shame or even a curse, contributing to exclusion from education and social life.
Beyond stigma, he cited financial constraints and a shortage of qualified teachers as key barriers to inclusive education.
The number of educators equipped with both the skills and commitment to support students with special needs remains insufficient, especially as enrollment continues to rise.
To address these gaps, the government is promoting inclusive schools based on four main system models: intellectual, physical, economic and social inclusion.
The approach aims to create a learning environment that accommodates diverse student needs and ensures no child is left behind.
Mu’ti said schools should serve as spaces of integration, where students from different backgrounds can interact and learn together without discrimination.
He also urged broader public participation, calling on communities and parents to shift their perspectives and support inclusive practices.
“Changing mindsets is just as important as improving facilities,” he said.
The minister stressed that providing education for children with special needs is not only a responsibility but also an honor that requires proper infrastructure and sustained commitment.
He underscored that serving children with special needs is a profound honor that must be supported by the provision of adequate facilities and infrastructure.
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Translator: Sean Filo, Raka Adji
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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