Indonesia's Education Ministry Supports Disaster Recovery in Sumatra Schools

Rapid Recovery Efforts

The Indonesian Ministry of Education has made significant progress in recovering from recent natural disasters in Sumatra Utara. As of January 5, 2025, 95.23% of affected schools (1,157 out of 1,215) are ready to resume educational activities ¹

. The minister, Abdul Mu'ti, reported that while some schools are still undergoing preparation for emergency learning and post-disaster cleanup, the majority have been restored to operational status.

Digitalization Efforts

In addition to physical recovery, the ministry has launched a major digitalization initiative. A total of 17,073 Interactive Flat Panels (IFP) have been distributed to schools in disaster-affected areas ²

. This effort not only helps restore educational services but also modernizes the learning environment. The digital panels are part of a broader strategy to enhance education quality and prepare students for the digital age.

Challenges and Progress

While the progress is significant, challenges remain. As of January 5, 1.6% of schools (19) are using tents for classes, and 2.4% (29 schools) are still undergoing cleanup operations ¹

. The ministry is working to resolve these issues promptly to ensure minimal disruption to the educational process.