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| Heartfelt Letter from a Public School Student to President Prabowo: We Are Ready to Become Indonesia’s Golden Generation. |
Bogor, July 27, 2025 – An emotional and inspiring moment unfolded during a visit by Cabinet Secretary (Seskab) Teddy Indra Wijaya, Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf, and Deputy Minister of Social Affairs Agus Jabo Priyono to Sekolah Rakyat Menengah Pertama (SRMP) 10 Cibinong. Located at the Inten Soeweno Integrated Center in Cibinong, West Java, this public boarding school witnessed a special occasion when students handed over heartfelt letters addressed to President Prabowo Subianto.
One of those letters came from Erni Andayani, a passionate student who expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to study in a school equipped with complete facilities and strong emotional support.
“Thanks to this Sekolah Rakyat (Public School), we get to experience proper education, complete facilities, nutritious meals, and the peace of mind to pursue our dreams,” Erni wrote in her letter.
Erni also shared how this program—initiated by President Prabowo Subianto—has opened new doors of hope for underprivileged children like her, giving them a real chance to build a better future.
“Before this school existed, we didn’t know what our future would look like. We felt like we didn’t have one at all. We thought every road had been closed to us. That there was no more path for poor children like us to reach our dreams.”
Who Wrote the Letter, and Why?
Erni’s letter stands out as a symbol of how the right educational support can transform lives. She not only expresses gratitude but also paints a vivid picture of how her life has changed since joining the school. She emphasizes how the school environment has made her feel welcome, supported, and valued—not just as a student, but as part of a new family.
“Here, we’re truly happy. We’ve made many friends, and the teachers treat us with love and care—just like their own children. We’ve become like a family here. They teach us everything: discipline, order, manners, and so much more,” Erni continued.
What Is Sekolah Rakyat and Why Does It Matter?
Sekolah Rakyat, which translates to “People’s School,” is a public boarding school program designed to serve underprivileged children. Initiated by the government under President Prabowo’s leadership, this program ensures access to quality education, life skills training, character building, and proper nutrition.
The goal is to provide holistic development—not only academically but also emotionally and socially—so students can grow into capable, confident individuals ready to contribute to the nation.
“We’re taught more than just subjects. We’re taught how to be good people, how to live with integrity and respect,” Erni said in her letter.
What Did the Government Officials Say During the Visit?
Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya praised the spirit of the students during the visit. He expressed his admiration for how Sekolah Rakyat has become a powerful example of how the state can step in to directly help the people—not just in theory but in practice.
Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf echoed that sentiment, stating that schools like this play a crucial role in breaking the cycle of poverty through inclusive and high-quality education.
Deputy Minister Agus Jabo Priyono also emphasized the importance of this initiative in shaping the character of Indonesia’s future generation.
What Is the School Environment Like?
According to Erni, life at Sekolah Rakyat goes beyond textbooks and classrooms. It’s about building strong bonds with peers and teachers. It’s about learning to dream again in a safe and nurturing environment.
The school provides a full boarding experience, where students are taught values like discipline, teamwork, empathy, and responsibility—qualities that are often missing in traditional school systems, especially for children from underprivileged backgrounds.
“This school feels like home. We feel loved, respected, and heard. That gives us the confidence to dream big again,” said Erni.
Why Is Erni’s Letter So Important?
Erni’s words carry the hopes and voices of countless children across Indonesia who are often left unheard. Her letter is more than just a thank-you note; it’s a powerful message that dreams can be real—even for those born in poverty—when the nation chooses to invest in them.
“We want to prove people wrong—those who say that poor kids can never be successful. We’ll work hard and show the world that we can succeed, that we will reach our goals,” she said.
She ended her letter with a heartfelt thank you to President Prabowo and declared her readiness, along with her fellow students, to become the next generation of leaders.
What Is the Broader Hope for the Future?
Erni’s letter also reflects a broader hope—that this type of educational model will be expanded to reach more children across Indonesia. Many families are still living in poverty, and for them, schools like SRMP 10 Cibinong are a lifeline.
By ensuring equal access to education and personal development opportunities, the country can unlock the full potential of its youth and prepare them to become the architects of Indonesia’s future.
The golden generation doesn’t just appear by chance—it’s created through effort, inclusion, and support.
How Has the Public Reacted?
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| Heartfelt Letter from a Public School Student to President Prabowo: We Are Ready to Become Indonesia’s Golden Generation. |
The letter quickly went viral on social media and online news platforms. Many Indonesians were moved by Erni’s sincerity, courage, and determination. Her message touched hearts and sparked discussions about the importance of educational equity and state-supported programs.
Education experts and child welfare advocates also applauded the program and encouraged the government to keep expanding it nationwide.
The Best Investment Is in Our Children
Erni Andayani’s story is not unique—but it is inspiring. It represents the power of education to change lives and break cycles of poverty. Through the Sekolah Rakyat program, President Prabowo Subianto has shown that true national progress begins with empowering the next generation.
As Indonesia sets its sights on becoming a developed nation, investing in children like Erni is the most powerful step forward.