Education Minister Guarantees Strategic Programs Will Continue Amid Budget Efficiency Policy
Jakarta – Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu’ti, has provided reassurance regarding the government’s budget efficiency policy introduced by President Prabowo Subianto. Speaking in Jakarta on Wednesday, Minister Mu’ti emphasized that critical education programs, including school operational support (BOS), the Smart Indonesia Program (PIP), and teacher certification assistance, will remain intact and benefit eligible recipients in 2025.
Minister Explains Budget Reduction Initiatives
Within the Ministry of Education, budget reductions are being implemented in various areas. Travel expenses, ceremonial events, and procurement costs for printing-related goods are among the targeted expenses.
“Despite the budget cuts, we are making every effort to ensure these reductions do not compromise the quality of services we provide to the community,” Minister Mu’ti stated.
Impact on Ministry Plans
While acknowledging the need for budget efficiency, the minister admitted that some planned programs within the ministry will undergo modifications. The core strategic programs, however, remain unaffected.
President’s Budget Efficiency Directive
President Prabowo has called for a reduction of Rp306.69 trillion (approximately US$18.7 billion) in the national and regional budgets for 2025. Ministries and agencies are required to cut their budgets by Rp256.1 trillion, while regional transfers are being trimmed by Rp50.59 trillion.
The Finance Minister, Sri Mulyani Indrawati, elaborated that the budget efficiency initiative is intended to redirect funds towards programs that will have a direct and substantial impact on the community.
Director of Targeted Funding Shifts
The programs prioritized include the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program, food and energy self-sufficiency initiatives, and improvements in the health sector.
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Conclusion
The implementation of the budget efficiency policy underscores the government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility while maintaining qualitative service in critical areas. Minister Mu’ti’s assurance provides a sense of continuity and stability in the education sector, particularly for programs that significantly impact students and teachers.
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