Jakarta – In a significant move to elevate its Human Development Index (IPM), Pemalang Regency is taking a bold step forward by proposing the establishment of an elite “Garuda” school. Regent Anom Widiyantoro, leading this initiative, has formally partnered with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Diktisaintek) to bring this ambitious project to fruition. The crucial discussions were held on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at the Ministry of Diktisaintek in Jakarta.
This high-level meeting served as a direct follow-up to a recent Focus Group Discussion (FGD) involving Eski Tri Rejeki, Special Staff of the Ministry of Diktisaintek, and Anjang Bambang Prasetyo of the Coordinating Ministry for Infrastructure. These earlier discussions laid the groundwork for the proposed elite senior high school in Pemalang.
Adi Nuryanto, Director of Talent Development in Science and Technology at the Ministry of Diktisaintek, expressed strong appreciation for Pemalang’s proactive engagement. “We highly appreciate the presence of the Pemalang Regent to discuss the proposed Garuda unggulan school. This is one of the flagship programs of the Ministry of Diktisaintek, and the Regent’s direct presence demonstrates a serious commitment from a regional leader who deeply cares about the human resources in their area,” stated Director Adi.
The Ministry will now proceed with a thorough consideration of Pemalang’s proposal. This will include a visit to the regency and a comprehensive verification of all necessary requirements to ensure the successful realization of this national program.
During his presentation, Regent Anom passionately highlighted Pemalang’s critical need for such an initiative. He underscored the fact that Pemalang currently holds the lowest IPM in Central Java, necessitating innovative breakthroughs beyond the existing community schools. The proposed “Garuda” school is envisioned to create a significant “multiplier effect” across the regency, fostering economic growth, generating new employment opportunities, and inspiring surrounding SMA/SMK schools to “level up” and become feeder institutions. Ultimately, the school is poised to transform Pemalang into a regional scientific hub, thereby dramatically enhancing the region’s competitiveness index.
“Pemalang is highly suitable for the establishment of the Garuda unggulan school,” emphasized Regent Anom. “With its low IPM, strategic geographical location, and the availability of qualifying local government land, all the fundamental conditions are met for this elite school.” He conveyed strong optimism, noting that not only have all prerequisites been fulfilled, but the project also enjoys widespread support from the community, the local government, and members of the regional legislative council.
The significant discussion was attended by key stakeholders, including Adi Nuryanto (Director of Talent Development in Science and Technology – Ministry of Diktisaintek), Anom Widiyantoro (Pemalang Regent), along with the Regional Secretary, the Head of Bappeda, the Head of BKAD, and the Secretary of the Pemalang Education Agency. The collective commitment from these officials underscores the strategic importance and potential impact of the proposed Garuda school on Pemalang’s future development.
