The Deputy Minister Of Social Affairs Affirms There Should Not Be Nepotism Of Students In People's Schools

JAKARTA - Deputy Minister of Social Affairs Agus Jabo Priyono has urged that the entire student selection process for Elementary Schools in Central Buton Regency, Southeast Sulawesi, must refer to the National Socioeconomic Single Data (DTSEN).

"There must be no compromises. After student data is confirmed based on the DTSEN and parental consent is obtained, it will be approved by the regent and sent to the Ministry of Social Affairs," said Agus Jabo Priyono in a statement to Antara News Agency on Tuesday, August 12.

He emphasized that the school's layout must comply with Elementary School standards, provide partitions between levels, and separate the area from the Sembilanbelas November University (USN).

Agus Jabo Priyono also requested that someone be in charge of direct supervision during the initial opening.

"When students arrive in September with teachers and other educational staff, there will certainly be challenges. For example, some students miss their parents or are not used to sleeping in the dormitory. All of these challenges must be addressed immediately. Students' health must also be checked; no one should be sent home due to illness, but rather treated according to the President's directives," said the Deputy Minister of Social Affairs.

Agus Jabo also emphasized the importance of students' daily needs, including three meals a day, two snacks a day, and eight sets of uniforms.

Meanwhile, the Central Buton Regency Government, Southeast Sulawesi, confirmed that all preparations for the People's School are nearly complete, from obtaining a land certificate for the 8-hectare site to a complete building renovation.

Initially, the school is expected to accommodate 150 students by September 2025.

"Repairs and inspections have been carried out, including electricity, clean water, mattresses, chairs, tables, dry and wet kitchens, a dining hall, and access roads to the school. We even expedited the access road construction within three weeks to demonstrate our commitment," said the Central Buton Regent, Azhari.

The building used is a renovated facility of the Sembilanbelas November University (USN), equipped with six classrooms: two each for elementary, middle, and high school.

In addition, there are laboratories, a library, student bedrooms, and a sports field. Student registration is currently underway, with a quota of 50 students per grade.