Army Commander Encourages Students at Government-Funded Boarding School in Central Java

WONOSOBO, Indonesia, Aug. 1 — An Indonesian army commander on Saturday encouraged students at a government-funded boarding school in Central Java to make the most of their education, saying the program offers opportunities for children from low-income families to pursue their future ambitions.

Lieutenant Colonel Yoyok Suyitno, commander of Military District Command (Kodim) 0707/Wonosobo, visited the Sekolah Rakyat (People's School) in Wonosobo, where students receive state-funded education, accommodation, meals, and school supplies.

"Take this opportunity to study seriously. With determination and hard work, you can achieve your dreams," Yoyok told the students.

He said construction of several school facilities was still underway, adding that the government was working to complete the remaining infrastructure to support teaching and learning activities.

One of the students, first-grader Putri Zelika Hadisani, said the boarding school had eased the financial burden on her family by providing free meals, clothing and educational equipment.

"Everything is provided for us, from food and clothing to school supplies. We are well cared for by our mentors," she said, adding that she hopes to become a teacher.

The Sekolah Rakyat program is part of the Indonesian government's effort to expand access to education for children from economically disadvantaged families through fully funded residential schools.