Hope School Orientation: Inspire Learning | MPR
Indonesia Prioritizes Safe, Character-building School Orientations to Combat Bullying
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Indonesia is placing renewed emphasis on creating positive and character-focused school orientation periods, aiming to prevent bullying and foster a welcoming habitat for students. Recent directives from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education and support from the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) signal a nationwide effort to transform the conventional “mos” – the Indonesian term for school orientation – into a constructive experience.
Addressing Past Issues & New Guidelines
For years, school orientations in Indonesia have occasionally been marred by incidents of bullying and hazing. Last year saw reported cases that prompted concern among parents and education officials. Responding to these issues, the ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has issued a circular mandating “Friendly School Orientation” practices for all levels of education, from early childhood through secondary school.
This circular isn’t simply a suggestion; it’s a directive outlining specific guidelines designed to strengthen student character and introduce them to the school community,environment,and curriculum in a positive manner. Key elements of the new approach include:
Character Progress Focus: Orientation activities are now expected to actively contribute to the development of students’ character, instilling values that will underpin their learning journey.
Transparency & Interaction: Schools are required to proactively disseminate details to parents regarding orientation schedules, objectives, prohibited activities, and complaint mechanisms. This increased transparency aims to build trust and accountability.
Proactive monitoring & Sanctions: The Ministry is actively encouraging community involvement in monitoring orientation activities to ensure compliance. Rusprita Putri Utami, Head of the ministry’s Character Strengthening center, has affirmed that sanctions, in accordance with applicable regulations and laws, will be applied to any violations.
The Role of the MPR and Stakeholder Collaboration
Deputy Speaker of the MPR, Lestari Moerdijat, has voiced strong support for the Ministry’s initiative. Moerdijat emphasized that school orientation represents a crucial chance to introduce the values that will shape students’ learning experience. She urged stakeholders at both central and regional levels to fully comply with the new policies, believing that collective participation is essential for a accomplished implementation.
“School orientation is a momentum to introduce the values that will be applied during the learning process in the school,” Moerdijat stated. “The active participation of all parties will make this year’s school orientation better than it’s previous edition.”
Beyond Prevention: Building a Positive School Culture
The shift towards “Friendly School Orientation” represents a broader commitment to fostering a positive school culture in Indonesia. This includes not only preventing negative behaviors like bullying but also actively promoting inclusivity, respect, and a sense of belonging.
This initiative aligns with ongoing government efforts to improve the quality of education across the country, including programs like the development of “Garuda Schools” in eastern Indonesia and initiatives to ensure fair and free admissions to “Sekolah Rakyat” (People’s Schools). These programs, alongside the new orientation guidelines, demonstrate a holistic approach to creating a supportive and enriching learning environment for all Indonesian students.
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