Author: Rahmatul Fajri
Central Kalimantan (Kalimantan Tengah) Governor Agustiar Sabran has revealed a number of achievements in the education sector since he took office in February 2025. Ahead of National Teachers’ Day 2025, the Central Kalimantan Provincial Government has rolled out various education programs aimed at bringing tangible change for students, educators, and universities. One flagship program is Free College Tuition, which has already benefited 3,060 students with budget support of Rp15.3 billion. Initially implemented only at the Muhammadiyah University of Palangkaraya, the program has now been expanded to 33 higher-education institutions across Central Kalimantan. “We want every family in Central Kalimantan to have the opportunity to send at least one child to earn a bachelor’s degree. Education is the main escalator toward progress,” Agustiar said in a statement on Tuesday (25/11).
At the secondary education level, the provincial government distributed BOSDA funds to 34,270 students from senior high schools (SMA), vocational schools (SMK), and special schools (SKH). A policy of free uniforms for students from families in extreme poverty further strengthens education equity. Uniforms not given to students from well-off families are redirected to disadvantaged students in grades XI and XII. “Equity does not mean everyone receives the same thing, but that those who need it must be prioritized,” said the Acting Head of the Central Kalimantan Education Office, Muhammad Reza Prabowo.
Teacher welfare has also been a major focus through the issuance of Governor Regulation No. 34 of 2025, which reinstates TPP payments for teachers that had been halted since 2022. Additional incentives are provided for certified and non-certified teachers, school supervisors, and teachers in remote areas. “Teachers are the front face of our education. The state must be present to ensure they are properly valued,” Agustiar said.
Education digitalization efforts have been accelerated through the procurement of interactive TVs, digital boards, solar panels, and Starlink-based internet access for public and private schools. This technology strengthens learning in both urban and remote schools. The principal of SMAN 1 Kuala Kapuas, Dwi Haryanto, called the support a smart solution for schools still constrained by energy and internet access.
The provincial government also runs year-round Guru Huma Betang training based on an LMS to improve teacher competencies ranging from teaching techniques and student mental health to ICT mastery. According to Reza, this innovation is not just training but a repositioning of teachers’ roles in the digital era. “Teachers can now update materials, manage assignments, and monitor students’ progress in real time.”
Improved learning quality is reflected in Central Kalimantan’s Rapor Pendidikan score rising from the “rintangan tuntas muda” category to “tuntas pertama,” reaching 71.35 in 2025. Significant gains were recorded in literacy and numeracy at all levels, including special schools. “This is the result of the collective work of teachers, principals, and the government,” Reza said.
Digital transformation is further strengthened through Kelas Digital Huma Betang, an integrated platform connecting teachers and students for synchronous and asynchronous learning. The program is targeted for full integration in 2026–2027. “We want education in Central Kalimantan to no longer be hindered by distance or infrastructure. Children in remote areas must be able to access the same learning as those in cities,” Agustiar said.
These achievements have been praised by MKKS SMA, SMK, and SKH across Central Kalimantan. MKKS SMK Chair Arifin said the provincial government’s steps restoring TPP, providing incentives, LMS training, and teacher housing have addressed real needs on the ground. “This shows the government truly understands the pulse of teachers in the field,” he said.
MKKS SMA Chair for Central Kalimantan, Dwi Haryanto, also noted that the governor’s education programs have transformed public services in the education sector. The programs are seen as having not only short-term impact but also serving as a foundation for a modern and equitable education system in the years ahead.
With these achievements, the Central Kalimantan Provincial Government is considered successful in bringing regional education toward a new, more advanced and inclusive standard. “Education is the best legacy we can give future generations. We will continue to improve, expand, and ensure that no child in Central Kalimantan is left behind,” Agustiar said. (H-2)