Schools and Parents Collaborate to Prepare Children for the New Competency Assessment (AKM)
The introduction of the Minimum Competency Assessment (Asesmen Kompetensi Minimum or AKM) in Indonesia marks a major shift in the country’s education system. Unlike traditional exams that emphasize memorization, AKM focuses on evaluating students’ literacy, numeracy, and reasoning skills. This change requires a new approach not only from teachers but also from parents, as both play a critical role in shaping students’ readiness to think critically and solve real-life problems.
Schools across Indonesia have begun to redesign their learning strategies to align with AKM objectives. Teachers are encouraged to use project-based learning, problem-solving tasks, and reading comprehension exercises that simulate AKM-style questions. Some schools also organize practice assessments and literacy workshops to help students become more familiar with the new format. This shift aims to cultivate curiosity and analytical thinking rather than rote memorization, preparing students for lifelong learning.
Parents, on the other hand, are encouraged to support this transformation at home. Instead of focusing solely on grades, they are advised to nurture their children’s curiosity by reading together, discussing daily events, and engaging in reasoning-based activities. By creating a supportive learning environment at home, parents can reinforce what children learn in school and help them develop confidence when facing open-ended questions typical of AKM.
Communication between schools and parents has become essential during this transition. Many schools now hold parent meetings, webinars, and collaborative workshops to explain the goals of AKM and share strategies for effective preparation. Teachers and parents work hand in hand to monitor students’ progress, address learning gaps, and ensure that the approach to education remains holistic—balancing academic skills with emotional well-being.
Ultimately, the success of the AKM depends on strong collaboration between schools and families. When teachers and parents share the same vision of nurturing critical thinkers rather than test-takers, children are more likely to thrive. This partnership creates a foundation for a more meaningful education system—one that equips students with the competencies they need to face the challenges of the 21st century.
