Current Education Focuses on Building Competencies for the Future

JAKARTA - Technological developments and changes in the world of work make the needs of education change. If in the past the success of a child was synonymous with academic achievement, now schools are required to equip students with critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.

This change in perspective was also highlighted in the topping off ceremony for the construction of the CitraRaya Tangerang Inspirasi Schools. The event marked the completion of the main structure of the school building which is scheduled to start accepting students in the 2027 school year.

Founder & Chairman of the Singapore Intercultural Schools (SIS) Group and Founder of Inspirasi Schools, Jaspal Sidhu, assessed that current education is no longer focused enough on academic subjects.

"The future of our children will be filled with very rapid changes. Therefore, education is no longer enough to focus solely on mathematics, science, or academic knowledge. Children need to be equipped with critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills so that they are ready for the world of work and life in the future," said Jaspal at Inspirasi Schools CitraRaya Tangerang, Friday, August 7, 2026.

According to him, these skills can be built through project-based learning, so that students not only learn theory, but also work together and solve problems through real experiences.

"At the Inspirasi Group of Schools, we implement project-based learning. Children not only learn in the classroom, but also work together with their friends, even collaborating globally with students from other countries. Through this experience, they learn to understand cultural differences, work in teams, and build international perspectives early on," he continued.

Jaspal added that schools also have a role in shaping character and adaptability, in addition to developing academic ability.

"We believe that schools are not only tasked with teaching subjects, but also shaping character, creativity, and adaptability. The world is constantly changing, so the way of learning must also continue to evolve so that graduates have competencies that are relevant to future needs," he explained.

Jaspal emphasized the importance of a safe learning environment that supports children's overall development.

"In addition to the academic aspect, we also pay great attention to the non-academic development and psychological well-being of students. We work with various institutions and continue to develop a safe, comfortable learning environment, as well as supporting the overall growth and development of children," he said.

Managing Director of Ciputra Group, Budiarsa Sastrawinata said the construction of schools not only provides educational facilities, but also creates an environment that supports children's growth and development.

"This collaboration shows a commitment to presenting an educational ecosystem that is able to support the needs of families while providing space for children to develop for the future," concluded Budiarsa.

Meanwhile, Indri Savitri, Academic Coordinator of the Inspiration Group of Schools, explained that the construction of the school was proceeding according to schedule. In the initial phase, the school will open the Play Group (KB), Kindergarten (TK), and Elementary School (SD).

Indri said the curriculum used combines the National Curriculum, Cambridge, and the Singaporean education approach.

"The curriculum we use is a combination of the National Curriculum, Cambridge, and the Singapore education approach. For the early age group, we adopt an approach from Singapore that emphasizes the social-emotional development, independence, and children's confidence. Entering the next level, learning is strengthened with the Cambridge curriculum," added Indri.

According to Indri, education must also equip children with future skills that are relevant to future needs.

"What we want to build is not only academic ability, but also future skills. Children are accustomed to thinking critically, being able to communicate, collaborate, adapt, and have perseverance. Knowledge can be obtained easily, but the ability to process knowledge into solutions to real problems is a skill that is much more important," said Indri.

On the other hand, Lalitya Ciputra Sastrawinata, Director of PT Ciputra Residence said that the presence of schools is expected to complement the environment that supports the needs of families.

"This milestone confirms that investment in education in CitraRaya Tangerang is not just a plan, but a commitment that we continue to realize step by step. The presence of CitraRaya Tangerang Inspirasi Schools will complement the residential ecosystem that supports the growth and development of every family comprehensively," said Lalitya.

As the world's needs evolve, education is no longer focused solely on academic achievement. Schools are also expected to be a place for children to build character, develop skills, and prepare for future challenges.