Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Education Ministry reported that schools in 52 districts across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra face varying levels of damage, delaying the resumption of learning after late-November floods and landslides.
In Aceh, 15 districts and cities remain closed, Education Minister Abdul Mu’ti told the House of Representatives (DPR) here Monday.
Three other areas have gradually reopened schools, while local authorities continue assessing safety and readiness for students.
In North Sumatra, two districts cannot resume classes, while two others are conducting limited learning, Mu’ti said.
Efforts focus on restoring facilities and ensuring access for students affected by infrastructure damage.
West Sumatra has largely resumed learning, except for 93 schools in Agam District. These schools remain focused on recovery, with operations expected to continue until December 22, according to the minister.
Related news: Floods - Education budget revised to accelerate recovery of schools
The ministry issued a directive on December 8 to implement emergency learning measures, including temporary classrooms, relocating students to unaffected schools, flexible schedules, and emergency learning modules for continued instruction.
Teachers and educators are receiving support to conduct lessons in tents and makeshift classrooms set up in affected areas, ensuring students can continue learning despite disrupted facilities.
For final semester exams, Mu’ti urged local authorities to adjust schedules based on post-disaster conditions. The ministry delegated exam timing to regions, as officials are best positioned to assess capacity and safety.
Related news: Some schools in Sumatra to be relocated after floods, minister says
Rapid response measures include school facility repairs, with aid ranging from Rp 10 million to Rp 25 million (roughly $600–$1,500) per school depending on damage. Assessments for 2026 budget priorities are ongoing.
Other emergency support includes Rp 6.4 billion ($385,000) in response aid, Rp 293 million ($17,600) in death or medical assistance for students and teachers, 10,000 school supply kits, and 74 emergency tents for classrooms.
Mu’ti emphasized that student safety and continued learning are top priorities. Additional assistance will be provided as needed to ensure schools fully recover and educational activities return to normal.
This news was published on Antaranews.com with a title: Sumatra schools struggle to resume classes after floods, landslides
