Aceh Students Return to Classrooms as Flood Recovery Gains Momentum

Jakarta: Teaching and learning activities in disaster-affected areas of Aceh have resumed as scheduled, marking a significant step in the province’s post-disaster recovery, Elementary and Secondary Education Minister Abdul Mu'ti said on Monday.

Mu'ti made the statement while leading a ceremony at State Vocational High School (SMKN) 4 Kejuruan Muda in Aceh Tamiang, which symbolically marked the reopening of schools following floods and landslides that struck the region late last year.

“Disasters shape us, pushing us to become stronger, more patient, and more creative,” Mu'ti said in a statement, describing the first day back at school as a powerful reflection of students’ resilience.

He stressed that while disasters inevitably cause loss and disruption, they must not extinguish children’s hopes and aspirations for the future.

According to the minister, education must continue under all circumstances, as the desire to learn transcends physical limitations and emergency conditions.

“Children are the hope of Indonesia’s future. Never stop pursuing your dreams and never lose hope. Limitations must not weaken the determination to keep learning and improving,” he said, as quoted from Antara, Tuesday, 6 January 2026.

Mu'ti also commended the Aceh provincial government, the Aceh Tamiang district administration, teachers, education personnel, and local communities for their collective efforts in restoring school activities.

He said the government’s presence on the first day of school underscored its commitment to safeguarding the right to education, particularly in post-disaster situations.

To support recovery efforts, the ministry has continued repairs to damaged school facilities in affected areas. Schools that suffered damage have been prioritized for revitalization assistance, including classroom rehabilitation and the replacement of furniture to ensure safe and conducive learning environments.

Mu'ti added that the government will ensure sustainable funding for school recovery through programs such as the 2026 Educational Unit Revitalization Program.

“Education recovery is not merely about reopening schools, but about restoring students’ confidence, enthusiasm, and optimism for the future,” he said.