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Ki Hajar Dewantara’s Education: Learning with Freedom and Role Models

When we talk about education in Indonesia, the name Ki Hajar Dewantara always comes to mind. He is not only the Father of Indonesian Education but also the pioneer of an educational philosophy that emphasizes freedom, role modeling, and character building. So, what exactly is Ki Hajar Dewantara’s approach to education?

1. Learning with Freedom: Education that Liberates

Ki Hajar Dewantara believed that education should free individuals, not just teach memorization or produce workers. He wanted every child to develop according to their own talents and interests rather than being forced to follow a rigid system. This concept is similar to today’s Merdeka Belajar (Freedom to Learn) policy in Indonesian schools.

2. The Three Pillars of Education: Ing Ngarsa Sung Tulodho

Ki Hajar Dewantara’s educational philosophy is well known for the motto:

Ing ngarsa sung tulodho (in front, setting an example)

Ing madya mangun karso (in the middle, encouraging enthusiasm)

Tut wuri handayani (at the back, providing support)


This principle highlights the role of teachers as role models, motivators, and supporters for students. It means that education is not just about delivering lessons but also about shaping character and independence.

3. Education for Everyone

During the colonial era, education was only accessible to the elite. Ki Hajar Dewantara challenged this by establishing Taman Siswa in 1922, a school open to ordinary people. His vision was that education should be inclusive and accessible to all, regardless of economic background.

4. Learning with Nature and Local Culture

According to Ki Hajar Dewantara, a good education system should align with the local environment and culture. That’s why Taman Siswa used a flexible learning approach, incorporating local language and cultural elements into the curriculum instead of following the rigid colonial education system.

5. Education as a Tool for Social Change

Ki Hajar Dewantara saw education as more than just a way to secure jobs—it was also a means to create a better society. He envisioned education that fosters independent thinking, critical reasoning, and social awareness.

Conclusion

Ki Hajar Dewantara’s educational philosophy is not just a theory; it’s a timeless vision that remains relevant today. He taught that learning should be liberating, character-building, and culturally rooted. By applying these principles, we can create a better and more relevant education system for today’s generation.

So, have we embraced education that truly liberates in our daily lives?

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