Medan, North Sumatra (ANTARA) - Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti said North Sumatra Province has received central government assistance totaling Rp852 billion, or around US$50.9 million, to support a school revitalization program targeting 897 schools.
“Nationally, the school revitalization budget amounts to Rp16.9 trillion, or around US$1 billion, covering 16,000 schools. We hope this assistance, including the provision of digital interactive boards in North Sumatra, can be utilized optimally as soon as possible,” Abdul Mu'ti said on Sunday.
The government, he added, is working to ensure the success of President Prabowo Subianto’s fourth Asta Cita mission, which focuses on strengthening human resource development, science and technology, education, public health, sports achievements, gender equality, and the roles of women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
The school revitalization assistance in North Sumatra will cover 34 early childhood education units, 400 elementary schools, 240 junior high schools, 119 senior high schools, 88 vocational schools, 11 special schools, and five community learning activity centers.
“For the education digitalization program in North Sumatra, a total of 1,778 digital interactive boards have been distributed to support modern learning methods starting in the second semester of 2026,” he said.
Baca juga: Indonesian govt seeks to revitalize 71,000 schools in 2026
On the same occasion, North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution said the provincial government continues to prioritize the education sector as a key driver of regional development.
“Among other initiatives, a free school program will begin in the Nias Islands and disaster-affected areas in 2026,” Nasution said.
Baca juga: Govt to disburse Rp32.8 billion in disaster aid for educators
According to official records, 50 senior high schools and vocational schools in North Sumatra were affected by recent floods and landslides.
“Although two schools are not yet operating at full capacity due to the severity of the damage, we assure you, Mr. Minister, that recovery efforts are ongoing,” he added.
