Antara News·Indonesia·Saturday, October 3, 2026 at 07:40 AM UTC

Around 25 pct Indonesian schools offer coding, AI subjects: minister

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Rolandus Nampu, Raka Adji

Badung, Bali (ANTARA) - Indonesian Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti stated that only around 25 percent of schools in Indonesia have offered coding and artificial intelligence (AI) as elective subjects.

Speaking at the Indonesian National Education Convention in Badung District, Bali, on Friday, he explained that his ministry is providing opportunities for students to learn coding and AI starting from grade 5 of elementary school through senior high school.

The policy aims to expand early exposure to digital technology and AI starting at the primary education level.

However, implementation relies heavily on teacher readiness, particularly through targeted training so educators can deliver the curriculum effectively for each grade level.

Mu'ti emphasized that upgrading teacher qualifications is a crucial factor in driving the ministry's priority programs forward.

To achieve this, the ministry is seeking support from higher education institutions to enhance educator competencies through training programs.

“We hope to gain support from university leaders to improve our teachers' capacity. Therefore, we must roll out a wide range of training initiatives,” he told university rectors and lecturers from across Indonesia.

In addition to coding and AI, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is prioritizing the development of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

The move aims to boost student interest in fields essential for developing a technology- and science-driven workforce.

He explained that the government is pushing the promotion of STEM by making learning easy, affordable, enjoyable, mindful, and meaningful. This approach aims to make science and mathematics more accessible and far less intimidating for students.

The ministry is also implementing a deep learning approach and reinforcing character education through counseling.

Additionally, English is set to become a mandatory subject starting in Grade 3 of elementary school by the 2027/2028 academic year.

Mu'ti emphasized that improving educational quality cannot happen in isolation across primary, secondary, and higher education.

He noted that all three levels must build a mutually reinforcing ecosystem, particularly through upgrading teacher quality and improving classroom instruction.

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