Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Jakarta Provincial Government asked schools, whether newly constructed or rehabilitated, to regularly conduct disaster mitigation simulations to enhance the preparedness of students and educational staff, especially in multi-story buildings.
“I have instructed the Head of the Education Agency that there must be frequent drills on how to anticipate disasters. While we certainly hope such events never occur, it is always better to be prepared,” said Deputy Governor of Jakarta Rano Karno in Jakarta, Friday.
He made the statement when he was visiting Public Elementary School (SDN) Lebak Bulus 04, Public Junior High School (SMPN) 299, and SDN Cilandak Barat 08 in Jakarta.
He noted that as school infrastructure in Jakarta now frequently reaches five to six stories in height, disaster mitigation efforts have become critically important.
According to Rano, schools must ensure that everyone within the school community understands the necessary steps to take during an emergency, such as an earthquake.
He emphasized that the modernization of educational infrastructure should not focus solely on constructing new buildings; it must also provide tangible benefits to students and teachers by ensuring learning spaces are comfortable, safe, inclusive, and clean.
"The most challenging part for us is maintenance. Building something is easy; a project might be completed in a year, but maintenance is an ongoing, year-after-year responsibility," Rano stated.
During the visit, Rano inspected the construction of SDN Lebak Bulus 04 and SMPN 299 Jakarta, as well as the rehabilitation of SDN Cilandak Barat 08.
The construction of SDN Lebak Bulus 04 and SMPN 299 Jakarta involved a contract value of Rp70.49 billion, covering a land area of 4,160 square meters and a building area of 9,724 square meters.
Meanwhile, the rehabilitation of SDN Cilandak Barat 08 cost Rp31.42 billion, covering a land area of 2,200 square meters and a building area of 4,529 square meters.
The building is equipped with a number of supporting facilities, including disability-friendly access, elevators, a fire protection system, sports amenities, and green open spaces.
The structure was also designed with a focus on energy efficiency, incorporating solar panels, optimized air circulation, and natural lighting.
Rano expressed his hope that these newly constructed and rehabilitated facilities would be maintained on an ongoing basis, ensuring they remain usable for the long term.
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Translator: Luthfia Miranda Putri, Cindy Frishanti Octavia
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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