Klojen (malangkota.go.id) – Acting Mayor of Malang Iwan Kurniawan continues to strive to improve the progress of handling Out-of-School Children (ATS) in Malang City. In addition to the significant steps that have been taken by the ATS Handling Task Force, the Acting Mayor of Malang together with his staff is currently designing a motivational program for ATS so that they have the spirit to go to school.
Previously, Acting Mayor Iwan received a report from the PATS Task Force that based on data as of January 2025, the number of ATS had decreased from 5.534 children in September 2024 to 3.406 children. Of the total 3.406 children not attending school, 1.125 children have been verified as having reasons for not attending school, the majority of whom are working.
"This is my concern to continue moving in handling ATS. I appreciate the significant progress in reducing the number of ATS which is inseparable from the hard work and dedication of all parties. However, what needs to be realized is that the biggest challenge is not only returning children to school, but also ensuring that they remain motivated so that they can complete their education well," said Acting Mayor Iwan while giving directions at the Coordination Meeting for School Dropouts in the Mayor's Meeting Room, Malang City Hall, Thursday (6/2/2025)
Iwan explained that this motivational program was designed to encourage ATS' enthusiasm for learning so that they can go to school, provide psychosocial support, and create a positive environment. "In the future, I want there to be a motivational forum involving ATS, their families, and competent speakers. We also involve ATS who have gone to school, so that this forum can inspire them to want to go to school and be enthusiastic about completing their education," he explained.
Iwan added, later this motivational forum, the resource persons presented will focus on providing motivation for children who are not in school. "We present figures who have success stories to tell to children to inspire them. My intention is to invite resource persons from the ministerial level," he explained.
Finally, the Acting Mayor of Malang expressed that this motivational giving could be a form of long-term intervention in handling ATS in Malang City. He hopes that ATS handling can be carried out consistently and sustainably.
"Of course, the stimulus given is to encourage children to be enthusiastic about going to school, completing their education, and having the motivation and opportunity to achieve their dreams. I continue to hope that the handling of ATS in Malang City can run sustainably, because this education is an investment for a better future for our next generation," concluded Iwan. (sfr/yn)
