Kupang, August 12, 2026 - Every child in remote areas of the country harbors a strong sense of curiosity and the courage to take action, but they need a comprehensive learning environment to ensure that potential is not extinguished. To address this need, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) officially opened the 10th Integrated National School (SNT) in Kupang Regency in the 2026/2027 academic year. This school serves as a concrete manifestation of the state's commitment to providing quality education services to all outstanding students in the region.

The arrival of SNT 10 Kupang was immediately greeted with enthusiasm by the children, who brought with them their own track records from previous levels. Marisa, one of the new junior high students, shared her motivation for enrolling at this school. "Because SNT offers excellent quality education, discipline, and many activities that can develop us," she said.

This girl, who loves playing soccer, also possesses a beautiful voice that has taken her to various singing competitions. "When I was in elementary school, I participated in a church singing competition and won first place," she recalled.

This achievement didn't just happen, but rather the result of simple perseverance she nurtured daily at home. "I diligently sang at home and practiced every day to improve my voice, and I never gave up. Even though I often failed at first," Marisa said in Kupang on Tuesday (August 11).

SNT seemed to be a solution for Marisa to overcome the limitations in honing her skills. "Because SNT has the facilities and mentors who can help me hone my talents more effectively and smoothly," she continued.

In another corner of the school, a new high school student, Chika, strode forward with courage forged on the stages of literacy competitions. Her track record is illustrious: first place in the Poetry Competition, first place in the Indonesian Speech Contest, and first runner-up in the district-level Quiz Competition. "I love poetry and speeches," she said simply, describing her passions.

Behind the trophies she's won, Chika has struggled to overcome her anxiety. "I practice a lot, learn from my mistakes, and keep trying, even though I sometimes feel nervous," she said.

When asked why he chose SNT 10 Kupang Regency, he responded by stating his desire to be in a space that would support his continued growth. "Because I want to be more confident and continue developing my skills," he said.

Responding to the students' strong determination, the SNT 10 Kupang Regency education team immediately took on an active role as mentors from the first moment they set foot in the school. "During this MPLS, the Learning Companion Team (TPP) accompanies the children both in colossal ways and in discussion groups . In addition, we also guide the MPLS activities as moderators, resource persons, and instructors for the great Indonesian children's gymnastics program. Primarily, we provide services to students if they encounter obstacles or need assistance," said Dian Ahmad Sasmito, a science teacher at SNT 10 Kupang Regency.

For the teachers, seeing the children's eyes in NTT is like seeing a hopeful future for Indonesia. "I see the children's talents, aspirations, and hopes. So, in the future, I hope that SNT can become a school that provides equitable, quality education services and helps children achieve their dreams," Ahmad concluded.

The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education (Mendikdasmen), Abdul Mu'ti, emphasized that every student has diverse abilities and learning needs. Therefore, an educational approach is needed that provides space for students to grow and develop according to their potential. "This special education model is an option so that all of you can grow, develop according to your academic abilities, and develop into a great generation of Indonesia 2045," the Minister told students during a separate MPLS activity.

For Marisa and Chika, SNT 10 Kupang Regency provides a new space to continue the process they have begun. With experience, achievements, and a passion for continuous learning, they now have the opportunity to develop their skills and pursue their dreams through learning experiences at a new school.*** (Author: Uly / Editor: Destian / Documentation: Ministry of Elementary and Secondary Education Team)

Bureau of Communication and Public Relations
Secretariat General
Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education

Website: kemendikdasmen.go.id
X: x.com/Kemdikdasmen
Instagram: instagram.com/kemendikdasmen
Facebook: facebook.com/kemendikdasmen
YouTube: Ministry of Education and Culture
Questions and Complaints: ult.kemendikdasmen.go.id
Press Release from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education: kemendikdasmen.go.id/pencarian/siaran-pers

#QualityEducationforAll
#MinistryOfEducationAndEducationFriendly