Seven Priority Education Programs for 2025: Strengthening Access and Quality in Indonesia
Jakarta, May 2025 – The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemendikbudristek), has outlined seven key priority programs for 2025 aimed at improving education accessibility and quality across the nation. These initiatives were highlighted during the 2025 National Consolidation Meeting and align with broader efforts to enhance human resource development.
1. Expansion of 13-Year Compulsory Education
One of the major focuses is the implementation of 13-year compulsory education, covering one year of early childhood education (PAUD), 12 years of basic and secondary education (SD-SMA/SMK). This policy aims to ensure that all Indonesian children have access to quality education from an early age, reducing dropout rates and improving long-term learning outcomes (PAUD Pedia, Kemendikbudristek).
2. Equal Distribution of Educational Access
The government is committed to bridging the education gap between urban and rural areas. Efforts include building new schools in underserved regions, improving teacher distribution, and providing scholarships to students from low-income families (Kemenkop UKM).
3. Digital Transformation in Education
To keep pace with global advancements, the ministry is accelerating digital learning platforms, such as Kurikulum Merdeka Belajar, which offers flexible and adaptive learning methods. Schools will receive better digital infrastructure, including internet access and e-learning tools, to support hybrid learning models (Menpan).
4. Teacher Quality and Professional Development
Improving teacher competency remains a top priority. The government will enhance teacher training programs, certification processes, and incentive structures to ensure educators are well-equipped to deliver high-quality instruction (Kemenkop UKM).
5. Strengthening Vocational Education (SMK)
Vocational schools (SMK) will be revitalized to better align with industry needs, ensuring graduates possess job-ready skills. Partnerships with private companies will be expanded to provide apprenticeships and improve employment opportunities (Menpan).
6. Character Education and Pancasila Values
The ministry emphasizes character-building education rooted in Pancasila values, aiming to foster moral integrity, tolerance, and nationalism among students (PAUD Pedia).
7. Increased Budget Allocation for Education
The government plans to optimize education funding, ensuring efficient distribution to schools, particularly in disadvantaged areas. This includes improving facilities, learning materials, and teacher welfare (Kemenkop UKM).
These seven priority programs reflect Indonesia’s commitment to inclusive and high-quality education. By focusing on accessibility, digital innovation, teacher development, and vocational training, the government aims to build a stronger foundation for the nation’s future workforce.
