Primary and Secondary Education Minister Abdul Mu’ti said the New Student Admission System (SPMB) introduces four pathways — domicile, achievement, affirmation and transfer — to broaden access to quality schooling nationwide.
“The affirmation pathway opens wider opportunities for children with special needs and those from underprivileged families to access education,” Mu’ti said.
He said the system aims to ensure no child is left behind, regardless of social, economic or geographic background, as part of broader efforts to improve equity in the education sector.
Beyond access, Mu’ti stressed that the admissions framework also promotes socio-religious inclusion, with schools expected to reflect Indonesia’s diversity.
He said educational institutions should serve as spaces where differences are treated as strengths rather than barriers, fostering mutual respect among students.
The government is encouraging schools to cultivate openness toward diversity, urging students not only to respect differences but also to support one another’s development.
Mu’ti noted that inclusivity must also address cultural and religious diversity, as well as economic disparities that often limit access to education.
To support implementation, the ministry is working to increase the number of trained assistant teachers for students with special needs through the Inclusive Education Training Program.
The initiative is seen as a key step to address the shortage of educators equipped with both the skills and commitment to deliver inclusive education.
“This is part of our effort to ensure that inclusive education is not just a concept, but a practice in classrooms,” Mu’ti said.
The policy aligns with President Prabowo Subianto’s fourth “Astacita” mission, which prioritizes the development of strong human resources through education, science and technology.
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Translator: Sean, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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