Since independence, Indonesia has overhauled its curriculum multiple times. The latest iteration, the (Independent Curriculum), introduced in 2022, attempts to reduce rote memorization and increase project-based learning. However, the shadow of the previous Kurikulum 2013 —with its heavy emphasis on scientific approach and character building—still looms large.
School life in Indonesia begins early. Contrary to Western images of yellow buses, Indonesian students navigate traffic on ojek (motorcycle taxis), angkot (minivans), or parent drop-offs.