Minister outlines four tracks in new student admissions system

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti outlined the four admission tracks for new students under the New Student Admissions System (SPMB), which will replace the current New School Participants Admissions System (PPDB) starting in 2025.

"There are four admission tracks for new students: the first is domicile or student residence, the second is achievement, the third is the affirmative track, and the fourth is the transfer track," Mu'ti explained at a press conference on Thursday.

His remarks aim to address public misconceptions, clarifying that the zoning system is not the only admission track available for new students.

Mu'ti elaborated that the domicile system, previously known as the zoning system, will undergo several adjustments. These changes will be tailored to the students' areas of residence to better meet local needs.

The achievement track, he noted, is designed for students with both academic and non-academic accomplishments.

"The non-academics (aspect) consisted of sports, arts, and leadership. Those who are active in school organizations or Scouts or others will later be considered for the achievement track," he said.

Furthermore, the affirmative track aims to support students with disabilities and those from underprivileged communities.

Lastly, the mutation track accommodates students whose parents have relocated for work, also including quotas for children of teachers who teach at specific schools.

His side emphasized that transitioning from PPDB to SPMB represents more than a name change; it reflects the government's efforts to provide the best education services for all groups.

"We have submitted this draft to the president, and he said he agreed with the substance of our proposal," Mu'ti remarked.

According to the minister, these various changes were based on studies conducted since the implementation of the PPDB system in 2017.

Currently, the ministry is also collaborating with related stakeholders, including the Ministry of Home Affairs, as the implementation of this SPMB will involve local governments.