UNS – The Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP) at Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta has reaffirmed its commitment. The faculty continues to focus on community empowerment. FKIP UNS collaborates with the Ministry of Social Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia (MoSA RI) to realize this commitment. The initiative aligns with the directive from the President.
FKIP UNS leaders visited the Ministry of Social Affairs office in Salemba, Jakarta, on Monday (28/4/2025). They discussed the collaboration during a meeting with the Vice Minister of Social Affairs, Agus Jabo Priyono. FKIP UNS Dean Dr. Imam Sujadi, M.Si., led the delegation. Vice Dean for Student Affairs and Alumni Prof. Slamet Subiyantoro, M.Si., also joined the meeting. Secretary General of IKA UNS Drs. Ir. Eko Nugroho BP, M.M., participated in the discussion. Deputy Chairman of IKA UNS Drs. Bambang Dwi Wahyudi accompanied the delegation as well.
Government and University Join Forces for ‘Sekolah Rakyat’
During the meeting, Vice Minister Agus Jabo emphasized the importance of partnerships between government agencies and universities. These collaborations aim to build people’s capacity, especially through the Sekolah Rakyat (People’s School) program. This movement expands access to education and skills development for underprivileged and vulnerable communities.
“Universities like UNS, especially FKIP, have significant potential to drive community empowerment through science-based approaches,” Agus Jabo stated, as quoted by kemensos.go.id. He added that higher education institutions should go beyond producing graduates—they must also act as agents of social transformation.
“We encourage students, lecturers, and alumni of UNS, especially from FKIP, to contribute to village development. They can also support community empowerment and help grow the local economy. Education must create a real impact,” he emphasized.
FKIP UNS Readies Strategic Support and Thematic Community Outreach
In response, FKIP UNS Dean Dr. Imam Sujadi expressed strong support for the Sekolah Rakyat initiative. He described it as an innovative approach to education rooted in social realities.
Dr. Imam explained that the meeting with the Vice Minister marked the beginning of FKIP’s long-term commitment. FKIP UNS will raise awareness about the importance of education and integrate Sekolah Rakyat into thematic community service programs (KKN). The faculty will also prepare socially aware teachers.
“We remain committed to this program. We will use KKN as a platform for outreach. We will also involve graduates of the Teacher Professional Education (PPG) program who are ready to work in real-world conditions,” he explained.
Additionally, FKIP UNS will form a dedicated team to assess its potential contributions. This team will design strategic and mutually beneficial implementation steps.
“We aim to educate the public and engage students in community outreach. We also prepare teachers who respond to social issues, including poverty,” Dr. Imam added.
FKIP UNS welcomes the Presidential directive to mobilize the nation’s full potential. With a spirit of collaboration and cooperation, the faculty stands ready to lead educational efforts that empower Indonesian society.
Humas UNS
