Batang Toru, February 18, 2025 – PT Agincourt Resources, the operator of the Martabe Gold Mine, has constructed and renovated classrooms in five schools spread across four districts in South Tapanuli, namely SMP Negeri 2 Batang Toru, SDN No. 100301 Pargarutan in East Angkola, SDN No. 101303 Batu Godang in Sangkunur Angkola, SMA Negeri 1 West Angkola, and MTs Private Mardhatillah in West Angkola. The construction, worth a total of Rp 1,45 billion, is part of PTAR’s efforts to support the development of education quality in the areas surrounding the mine.
Deputy Director & General Manager Operations of Agincourt Resources, Rahmat Lubis, stated that the construction and renovation of classrooms are not only aimed at creating a good and proper learning environment, but also able to motivate students to study with more spirit and enthusiasm. With more adequate facilities, students are expected to be more focused in absorbing knowledge and achieving better performance.
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“We believe that a good learning environment greatly affects the quality of education. Therefore, we are committed to continue supporting the improvement of educational infrastructure, especially around our operational areas,” said Rahmat.
According to him, there are many factors considered by PT Agincourt Resources (PTAR) in deciding which schools are suitable to receive assistance. Not only the condition of the buildings, but also the comparison between the building area and the number of students were reviewed and aligned with the Minister of National Education Regulation No. 24 of 2007 concerning Standards for Facilities and Infrastructure for Elementary Schools/Islamic Elementary Schools (SD/MI), Junior High Schools/Islamic Junior High Schools (SMP/MTs), and Senior High Schools/Islamic Senior High Schools (SMA/MA).
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“Another consideration is the proposal from the schools and the Education Office to ensure there is no overlap between government assistance and PTAR’s support. We also prioritize assistance for schools that have not yet received our support,” said Rahmat.
The assistance for the construction and renovation of classrooms is expected to contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 on Quality Education. SDG 4 targets inclusive and equitable education and increasing lifelong learning opportunities for all.
Consistently, PTAR allocates a special budget for the construction and renovation of classrooms, as well as educational facilities and infrastructure. Throughout 2024 alone, PTAR has disbursed Rp 3,68 billion to build and renovate classrooms, and also provide computers and educational equipment to 16 schools in South Tapanuli.
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The principal of SMA Negeri 1 West Angkola, Salamat Siregar, expressed deep appreciation to PTAR for its dedication in supporting the advancement of education, including at the school he leads. According to him, the assistance not only meets the established standards but even exceeds expectations with various additional facilities such as desks and chairs for students and also whiteboards.
“Hopefully, this assistance can create a more effective and inspiring learning environment for the students, so that they can remain enthusiastic in developing their potential, and ultimately realize quality education that serves as an important foundation for the students’ future and the progress of this region,” said Salamat.
In addition to educational infrastructure, PTAR has a series of other programs in the education sector. These programs include the Martabe Prestasi Scholarship and Focused Learning, the development of honor classes at the junior and senior high school levels, a partnership program for the development of three vocational high schools, and also capacity building and empowerment for teachers.
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