Jakarta, INTI – Floods that have struck several areas in North Sumatra have not only damaged physical infrastructure but also disrupted teaching and learning activities in schools. As access to digital learning was hindered, connectivity became an urgent need for both students and teachers. In response to this challenge, the government introduced a solution by providing free internet access to ensure that educational activities could resume. This recovery effort was realized through a literacy and humanitarian initiative targeting affected schools. The program was carried out as part of the Roketin Generasi Tunas Digital event held at SMA Dharmawangsa Medan, December, (13/12/2025).
Connectivity Support for Affected Schools
The Ministry of Communication and Digital (Kemkomdigi) distributed free internet assistance to several schools impacted by flooding in North Sumatra Province. This program is the result of a collaboration between Kemkomdigi and internet service provider MyRepublic as part of efforts to support post-disaster educational recovery.
Through this partnership, six schools received free internet access with speeds of up to 500 Mbps for a full year. The assistance is expected to restore disrupted digital learning access and create greater opportunities for the optimal use of technology within the school environment.
Government Expectations for Educational Recovery
Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid expressed her hope that the connectivity facilities would be used to their fullest potential to support teaching and learning activities. According to her, internet support is not merely technical in nature but also forms part of a humanitarian effort to ensure that education continues despite challenging circumstances.
She emphasized that strengthening connectivity aligns with the government’s national program to develop digital learning. With adequate internet access, schools are expected to catch up on learning disruptions and improve the overall quality of the educational process.
Building a Safe and Ethical Digital Culture
In addition to providing internet assistance, Kemkomdigi also inaugurated Roketin Generasi Tunas Digital Ambassadors from among students. These ambassadors play a strategic role in socializing Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on the Governance of Electronic System Operations for Child Protection (PP TUNAS).
The selected students will act as peer educators, encouraging their friends to use digital spaces safely and responsibly. They are also expected to convey the importance of delaying social media use in accordance with a child’s age and developmental stage.
The Role of Teachers and Parents in Digital Role Modeling
Meutya Hafid stressed that protecting children in digital spaces cannot rely solely on regulations. Practical actions in a child’s immediate environment particularly from teachers and parents are essential to building healthy digital habits.
She highlighted the importance of role modeling, including teachers’ behavior in using social media in front of students. Such efforts are considered crucial in preventing social media addiction, which poses risks to children’s mental health and overall development.
Appreciation from the Regional Government
North Sumatra Deputy Governor Surya expressed his appreciation for the free internet assistance provided to schools in the region. He noted that the support could help reduce the digital divide between schools, especially in disaster-affected areas.
According to Surya, equitable internet access will encourage innovation in teaching methods and ensure that all students have equal opportunities to benefit from digital-based education. The regional government, he added, is committed to supporting the sustainability of this program to improve the quality of education in North Sumatra.
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