MaxFM, Waingapu – Golden generations of East Sumba regency is projected to be 40.719 in the year of 2031. They are now attending elementary school or high school. It is expected that they will be able to compete globally in 2031.

To achieve the target, strategic plans must be well-prepared. Education shall be one of the plans to related empower the human resource in the East Sumba regency. Therefore, attempts are required to minimize dropout numbers and to ensure that students finish their education.

In his speech, the Regent of East Sumba, Drs. Kristofel Praing, M.Si., stated his strategic plans. The speech was delivered before the Regent opened a public discourse of strategic education plan. The event was carried online with support from Program INOVASI (Tuesday, 11/11/2021).

Kristofel further said that there are 40. 719 pupils attend schools at 429 formal educations. They are either in elementary level (SD) or junior high school (SMP). These students are the golden generations of East Sumba in 2031, so there should be serious attempts to ensure that the students obtain good quality of education.

“There are 6,763 children of school age (7-18 years old) not attending school. This is our responsibility to provide them with education,” said Kristofel, who was once the head of the Matawai district.

Kristofel added that with the current total number of pupils in East Sumba being 54,930, the local government must help the students to finish their education.

Kristofel also mentioned that young children should attend an early education program (PAUD). Studies find that those attending early education programs likely demonstrate better literacy skills, have a richer vocabulary and show higher skills in basic mathematics.

The regent appreciates Program INOVASI who has assisted his team with the strategic plan of education (Renstra Pendidikan) in East Sumba. The strategic plan focuses on four aspects: literacy, numeracy, character, and Gedsi (gender, disability, and social inclusion). The strategic plan will apply from 2021 to 2026. It is expected that the plan will meet the needs of education development in the East Sumba regency for five years.

“It is our responsibility to improve the quality of human resources in East Sumba in the next five years”, Kristofel said.

The Director of Program INOVASI, Mark Heyward, appreciates their partnership with the East Sumba government. The partnership was initiated in 2017 and will end in December 2023.

Heyward stated that although the strategic plan covers 5 years period, the four aspects of the plan – literacy, numeracy, character, and Gedsi, can be carried out simultaneously. Through the annual strategic plan, the four issues can be implemented consistently. Eventually, the outcome can be seen in 2026.

“We (INOVASI) hope that these programs will be disseminated to schools in East Sumba. That way, the final result will be more tangible for all,” Heyward said.

The head of Regional People’s Representative Assembly (DPRD) of East Sumba, Ali Oemar Fadaq, addresses his respects for the partnership between East Sumba and INOVASI. The response was delivered by his representative, Ayub Tay Paranda, the Chairman of the Commission (Komisi III) of East Sumba.

Concerning that the partnership with INOVASI will end in 2023, Ayub mentioned that the local government shall look forward to the continuity of the program. Continuous implementation of best practices must be performed.

“The Regional People’s Representative Assembly will always support the government to improve the quality of our human resources. Of course, with the measurable programs,” he said. [Translator : Itha Priyastiti]