Ministero, le regioni accelerano le scuole nazionali integrate

Indonesia’s Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has intensified its efforts to expand the National Integrated Schools (SNT) program, working alongside 30 regional administrations to fast-track the development of these institutions. The initiative aims to improve equitable access to quality education across the country, with key milestones achieved during a recent agreement-signing ceremony in Tangerang, Banten. During the event, the ministry signed regional grant agreements and handed over land documents to 16 regional administrations, including Sambas District, Gayo Lues District, and Tasikmalaya District. Additionally, commitments were formalized with 14 other regional governments to expedite land settlements and secure necessary supporting documentation. This marks a critical step toward realizing the vision of integrated schools that combine junior and senior high school education within a single campus. The ministry’s Secretary General, Suharti, emphasized that the land grants represent a strategic investment by regional authorities in the long-term development of their communities. “These educational hubs will not only offer quality secondary education for SNT students but also contribute to enhancing teacher training and elevating the standards of nearby schools,” she stated in a written statement from Jakarta. Gogot Suharwoto, Director General of Early Childhood, Primary, and Informal Education, explained that SNTs are designed to act as catalysts for educational advancement. “By serving as centers for student and teacher development, these schools will drive improvements in the surrounding educational landscape,” he noted. He stressed that local government support, particularly in securing land, is essential to achieving this goal. Looking ahead, the ministry plans to develop SNTs in 37 districts and cities by 2026, with 17 of these locations set to commence operations during the 2026/2027 academic year. This expansion aligns with the government’s broader objective of establishing 500 integrated schools nationwide by 2029. The current phase of land acquisition and administrative coordination is part of a larger strategy to ensure timely implementation. Moving forward, the ministry and regional partners will focus on accelerating land preparation, ensuring legal clarity regarding land ownership, processing required permits, and initiating construction under a multi-year contract framework. This structured approach is intended to streamline project execution and guarantee sustainable outcomes. The initiative reflects a growing emphasis on centralized educational infrastructure as a means to address disparities in resource distribution and elevate overall educational standards. With continued collaboration between central and local authorities, the SNT program is positioned to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of secondary education in Indonesia.