Jakarta, en.SERU.co.id – The Indonesian government has officially cancelled its plan to implement nationwide online (daring) learning starting April 2026.
The Minister of Basic and Secondary Education (Mendikdasmen), Abdul Mu’ti, stated that teaching and learning activities will continue through face-to-face (luring) methods to preserve the quality of education. According to the minister, offline learning remains more effective in supporting students’ character development and academic achievement.
“Face-to-face learning is more effective in strengthening student character and academic performance,” said Minister Abdul Mu’ti, as quoted by Kompas.com on Thursday (26/3/2026).
Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture, Pratikno, revealed that the decision was a direct directive from President Prabowo Subianto. The President places great emphasis on improving the quality of human resources, particularly in education and health sectors.
“The learning process must be increasingly optimal and must not cause learning loss. Therefore, face-to-face learning remains the top priority,” Pratikno stated.
The idea of switching to online learning had previously emerged as a precautionary measure against potential energy crises stemming from geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East. However, the government assessed that the situation does not yet warrant a nationwide change in the education system.
Additionally, officials noted that widespread implementation of online learning risks widening educational disparities. Deputy Chairman of Commission X of the House of Representatives (DPR RI), Lalu Hadrian Irfani, warned that digital infrastructure in Indonesia is still unevenly distributed across regions.
“If implemented nationally, distance learning (PJJ) could actually increase inequality. It would be better to apply it selectively according to each region’s readiness,” he said.
Nevertheless, Irfani appreciated the government’s efforts to find energy-saving solutions, while stressing that such policies must not compromise the quality of students’ education.
“The government needs to ensure the readiness of supporting facilities, including internet access, data quota subsidies, learning devices, and teacher training,” he concluded, as reported by MSN. (aan/rhd)
