Strategi Pendidikan dan Pembangunan Sumber Daya Manusia di Indonesia Masa Orde Baru

The Orde Baru era in Indonesia, spanning from 1966 to 1998, witnessed a significant shift in the nation's educational landscape. This period was marked by a strong emphasis on national development, with education playing a pivotal role in achieving this goal. The government implemented a comprehensive strategy aimed at improving the quality and accessibility of education, fostering a skilled workforce, and promoting national unity. This article delves into the key aspects of the education and human resource development strategy during the Orde Baru era, exploring its impact on Indonesian society.

The Role of Education in National Development

The Orde Baru government recognized education as a cornerstone of national development. The belief was that a well-educated populace would contribute to economic growth, social progress, and political stability. The government's education strategy focused on expanding access to education, improving the quality of teaching and learning, and promoting national values. This strategy was implemented through a series of policies and programs aimed at achieving these objectives.

Expanding Access to Education

One of the primary goals of the Orde Baru government was to make education accessible to all Indonesians. This involved expanding the number of schools, particularly at the primary and secondary levels. The government also introduced various programs to encourage enrollment, such as scholarships and financial assistance for underprivileged students. The expansion of education infrastructure and the implementation of these programs resulted in a significant increase in school enrollment rates during the Orde Baru era.

Improving the Quality of Education

The government also focused on improving the quality of education. This involved strengthening the curriculum, training teachers, and providing adequate resources to schools. The curriculum was revised to emphasize science, technology, and vocational skills, aligning with the government's focus on economic development. Teacher training programs were implemented to enhance their pedagogical skills and knowledge. The government also invested in providing schools with necessary equipment and facilities to support effective teaching and learning.

Promoting National Unity

The Orde Baru government saw education as a tool for promoting national unity. The curriculum emphasized national values, history, and culture, aiming to foster a sense of shared identity among Indonesians. The government also encouraged extracurricular activities that promoted inter-ethnic and inter-religious understanding. These efforts aimed to create a cohesive society where citizens felt a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

Impact on Human Resource Development

The education strategy implemented during the Orde Baru era had a significant impact on human resource development in Indonesia. The expansion of access to education led to a more educated workforce, contributing to economic growth and social progress. The focus on science, technology, and vocational skills helped to develop a workforce that could meet the demands of the growing economy. The emphasis on national values fostered a sense of unity and patriotism among Indonesians.

Conclusion

The Orde Baru era witnessed a significant transformation in the education landscape of Indonesia. The government's strategy, focused on expanding access, improving quality, and promoting national unity, played a crucial role in human resource development. The expansion of education infrastructure, the implementation of teacher training programs, and the emphasis on national values contributed to a more educated and skilled workforce, fostering economic growth and social progress. While the Orde Baru era ended in 1998, the legacy of its education strategy continues to shape the Indonesian education system today.