- 166 state-run boarding schools launched nationwide, covering all provinces to ensure wider access to education
- Free education provided for children from low-income families, including learning, housing, and basic support
- Program aims to build skills and improve job readiness, using schooling as a pathway to long-term economic opportunity
Indonesia has launched 166 free boarding schools, known as People’s Schools, to expand access to quality education for children from underprivileged families. President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated the nationwide rollout on Monday at a ceremony in Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan, joined by cabinet members and regional leaders.
The schools are fully funded by the state and operate across 34 provinces, offering students free education, housing, and learning support. President Prabowo praised the Ministry of Social Affairs for building education facilities that reach families who often lack access to stable schooling.
“We are opening 166 People’s Schools today, and we aim to reach 500 schools by 2029,” Prabowo said. The government plans to enroll 30,000 eligible students by the end of 2026, which would double the current intake. Officials see the initiative as a long-term investment in education, workforce readiness, and social mobility.
During the visit, the president toured classrooms and facilities at a People’s School in Banjarbaru that has been operating for about six months. He also interacted with students, some of whom welcomed him in English and Mandarin, highlighting early progress in language and communication skills.
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Prabowo said he was impressed by how quickly students had developed strong academic abilities, especially given the short time the school has been running. He noted that education plays a key role in building confidence, skills, and future job opportunities for young Indonesians.
Along with opening existing schools, the president also led a symbolic groundbreaking for 104 more People’s Schools, signaling the next phase of expansion. The government hopes the program will help reduce inequality by giving disadvantaged children a safe learning environment and the skills needed to succeed in higher education and the job market.
