Minister Abdul Mu’ti noted that the plan is to use existing facilities provided by government institutions as “transition classrooms” while permanent campuses are under construction.
At a media briefing in Jakarta on Monday, he said the temporary sites would be provided by the ministry, regional governments, and other institutions, including the Nusantara Capital Authority (OIKN).
The national program will initially be launched at 17 locations across the country, including Bogor District, Cianjur District, Gowa District, Bone Bolango District, Tidore Islands City, future capital Nusantara, Banyumas District, and Jepara District.
Similar schools are also prepared for operation in Subulussalam City, Tarakan City, Donggala District, Bolaang Mongondow District, North Minahasa District, Kupang District, Central Buton District, Tebo District, and East Tanjung Jabung District.
Mu'ti said the government ultimately targets establishing Integrated National Schools in 37 districts and cities this year, with 20 schools expected to begin admitting students in the 2027/2028 academic year.
"We have a clear directive from Mr. President [Prabowo Subianto] for the Integrated National Schools program. Our objective is to prepare 500 schools gradually through 2029," the minister added.
He also noted that the ministry had received an additional Rp9.12 trillion (around US$508 million) in funding to support the president's priority program.
According to Mu'ti, the funds will be disbursed in two phases, beginning with Rp204.5 billion.
Earlier this month, he explained that the program is intended exclusively for high-achieving students.
"The schools are designed for those who have high or above-average academic abilities. None of them will adopt the boarding school concept," Mu'ti said, distinguishing the initiative from the Sekolah Rakyat (People's School) program, which serves children from poor families.
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Translator: Hana Dewi, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Arie Novarina
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