Education Minister Urges End to Hazing and Seniority in School Orientation
Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Mendikdasmen) Abdul Mu'ti has called for the 2026 School Year Orientation (MPLS) to be free from hazing and seniority practices. The directive aims to ensure that every student can learn in a safe, comfortable, and inclusive environment. Mu'ti emphasized that these traditional practices, often involving bullying and the assertion of dominance by older students, are detrimental to the learning process. By eliminating them, the ministry hopes to foster a more positive and equitable educational experience for all new students. This initiative reflects a broader effort to reform school culture and promote student well-being. The focus is on creating a welcoming atmosphere where students can adapt to their new surroundings without fear or intimidation. The ministry believes that a positive start to the school year is crucial for academic success and personal development.
The directive to eliminate hazing and seniority during school orientation reflects a systemic effort to address the negative impacts of traditional power dynamics within educational institutions. Such practices, while often rooted in historical norms, can create environments that are counterproductive to learning and student well-being. By promoting inclusivity and safety, educational authorities aim to foster a more equitable and supportive learning culture. This initiative aligns with broader societal trends that emphasize psychological safety and the deconstruction of hierarchical structures that can lead to bullying or exclusion. The long-term success of this policy will depend on consistent enforcement and the cultivation of alternative, positive social integration methods for new students.
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