RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Ministry of Elementary and Secondary Education has disbursed emergency cleaning funds to accelerate the recovery of schools in Aceh Tamiang following recent floods. The initiative is intended to ensure that learning activities resume as quickly as possible despite logistical challenges in the province.

Minister Abdul Mu’ti stressed that education must remain a priority under any circumstances. He encouraged students to stay committed to their studies, saying that limited facilities should not weaken their determination.

“Children are Indonesia’s hope for the future. Never stop dreaming and never lose your enthusiasm. Limitations should not dampen your resolve to continue learning and improving yourself,” Mu’ti said in Jakarta on Monday, January 26, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

Since early January, the ministry has mobilized significant resources to stabilize education in Aceh. It has distributed 15,500 school kits to provide students with basic learning tools, while also setting up 97 large tents and 100 emergency classrooms to replace damaged school buildings and create safe, temporary learning spaces.

These measures are supported by substantial funding, including IDR 11.2 billion (USD 667,000) in emergency operational assistance to keep schools functioning and an additional IDR 300 million dedicated to psychosocial support.

The financial commitment is designed to help schools manage daily expenses while addressing the emotional needs of students and teachers affected by the disaster.

In Aceh Tamiang, the cleaning process is nearly complete. While some schools are still clearing debris, Sepriyanto, head of the district’s Education and Culture Office, said he expects the work to be finished within one to two weeks.

Local educators have expressed gratitude for the swift intervention. Rosydha Tanjung, principal of state-run elementary school SDN Tanjung Binjai, said the cleaning funds had already been used to purchase equipment and cover labor costs. “This assistance has been very helpful for us, the school community, as we clean the school,” she said.

Hasanah Lubis, a teacher at the same school, echoed the sentiment. “Thank God, our school is back to normal. The support has been invaluable in reviving learning activities,” she said. ***