PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - The Bandung City Government has allocated Rp36.35 billion for the Education Continuation Program (RMP) for private elementary and junior high school students. In addition, assistance has been provided to nearly 2,000 university students, with a total budget of approximately Rp6.87 billion.

This was stated by the Mayor of Bandung, Muhammad Farhan, during the commemoration of National Education Day at the Bandung City level at Bandung City Hall, Monday (4/5/2026).

The ceremony was led directly by the Mayor of Bandung, Muhammad Farhan, attended by elements of the DPRD, Forkopimda, regional apparatus, teachers, students, and hundreds of angklung players from PGRI.

Farhan openly asked the DPRD and the media to monitor the realization of the budget.

"Take note of our promise. Make sure it's realized on time," he said.

In his speech, Farhan outlined five strategic education policy directions, ranging from school digitalization, improving teacher welfare, to strengthening literacy and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics).

One of the highlights is the deep learning approach combined with character education, including positive habits such as cheerful morning activities, scouting, and strengthening leadership values.

Equally important, the Bandung City Government also promotes inclusive education by opening access for children with special needs.

"Bandung will begin pioneering inclusive schools. This isn't easy, but we must do it," said Farhan.

This commitment isn't just talk. The Bandung City Government has allocated a significant budget for the education sector.

Among the various achievements and programs, Farhan highlighted one crucial issue: student mental health. He revealed that tens of thousands of students in Bandung City experience mental health problems, ranging from stress to severe depression.

In response, the Bandung City Government will strengthen the role of guidance and counseling (BK) teachers through intensive training and collaboration with psychologists.

"This is a huge challenge. We can't just focus on academics, but also on the mental health of our children," he said.

In addition, character education is also strengthened through collaboration with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri), which provide training in discipline and national insight in schools.

At the event, Farhan expressed his appreciation to the teachers for their dedication, while also conveying a message to the students.

"To my children, stay strong. Today determines your future," he said. (Bandung City Communications and Information Service/rka)