Jakarta (ANTARA) – The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has earmarked Rp860 million (approximately US$48,500) in emergency relief for dozens of schools affected by a recent earthquake on Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT).
According to a written statement, Primary and Secondary Education Minister Abdul Mu’ti symbolically handed over the aid during an official visit to Nagekeo District, NTT, on Monday.
He assured that earthquake-affected schools across several areas in the province will be prioritized under the school revitalization program.
Alongside long-term revitalization efforts, the ministry provided immediate relief items for schools and affected communities in Nagekeo and Ngada districts. The initial package included 9,400 general reading books, 495 school kits, 30 family kits, 1,000 shirts, and 1,650 food packages.
As an initial response measure, the ministry readied Rp860 million in cash vouchers for 61 schools affected by the earthquake that struck NTT on Saturday (August 15) morning.
“We remain optimistic and confident that we can overcome this disaster together. What matters most now is working together, supporting one another, and recovering from this disaster,” Mu’ti said.
He added that officials are continuing to assess the affected schools to determine the extent of the damage. The results will form the basis for identifying needs that can be addressed under the school revitalization program.
After completing the data collection and assessment of needs, the ministry will immediately prepare the necessary documents to proceed with signing cooperation agreements.
The minister noted that construction work can proceed immediately as soon as the second phase of additional budget funds for the school revitalization program is officially allocated under the ministry’s budget implementation plan and disbursed to the schools.
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Translator: Hana Dewi, Raka Adji
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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