Strengthening Character Education Intensified

Kompas, page 12

Strengthening character education in teaching and learning activities in schools is increasingly intensified to produce superior individuals and develop leadership. The school is expected to be a comfortable and enjoyable place for students. The teachers are also encouraged to inspire students. This was conveyed by Minister of Education and Culture Muhadjir Effendy when opening Education Expo of Banyumas Regency and the Declaration of Strengthening Character Education in Primary Schools in Purwokerto, Central Java, Thursday (27/4).

Muhadjir said character strengthening/building is mandated in the nawacita of President Joko Widodo’s administration. The portion of character education for primary schools is 70 percent and 30 percent for knowledge cultivation.  For SMP it is 60 percent for character reinforcement and 40 percent for knowledge.

Muhadjir said, in running the mental revolution, in the new school year teachers should be in school for 8 hours. Teaching and learning activities are also held at least 8 hours. In return, on Saturday and Sunday there are no school activities; or holiday. That, he said, should not be misconstrued that children are in the classroom for 8 hours or given more subjects. So, the number of subjects is reduced, but the number of activities is multiplied.

Head of Banyumas Regency Education Agency Purwadi Santoso said, in Banyumas 810 primary school principals stated they are ready to implement strengthening of character education. Strengthening character education in schools in Banyumas is done in an integrated manner through banyumasan cultural subjects as well as Pancasila and Citizenship Education lessons. There the children are taught good manners. In addition, before the start of the lesson, students are invited to shake hands with teachers and fellow friends.