On Friday, August 8, 2025, the program kicked off at Karuna Elementary Dhammaseka in Tangerang, Banten, where children underwent comprehensive health screenings. From height and weight measurements to eye, ear, and dental exams, as well as nutritional and fitness assessments, the check-ups were designed to ensure the well-being of each student.

The initiative, driven by Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar’s directive to provide medical access to students of all religious schools, reflects a broader vision of fostering a healthy generation to achieve Indonesia’s Golden Indonesia 2045 goals.

“This is just the beginning,” said Supriyadi, the Ministry’s Director General of Buddhist Guidance, as he observed the bustling activity at Karuna Elementary. “Karuna is our starting point, but we’re already planning to bring the CKG program to Buddhist schools in Medan, North Sumatra, and Surabaya, East Java. Our goal is to reach about 1,600 dhammaseka students nationwide.” Supriyadi’s enthusiasm underscores the ministry’s determination to swiftly expand the program, with at least four additional locations set to join soon.

The CKG program, first launched in February 2025, has already made significant strides, reaching approximately 16 million Indonesians as of August 3. With a target of serving 60 million beneficiaries by year-end, the program’s expansion to schools began on August 4, covering 12 institutions across various regions. Its arrival at Karuna Elementary marks a milestone in ensuring that students in religious schools, including Buddhist ones, are not left behind.

For Muljadi, Chair of the Karuna Dhammaseka Foundation, the health checks are a game-changer. “This program doesn’t just keep our students healthy - it supports their learning by giving them the confidence to thrive,” he said, watching a group of children giggle as a nurse checked their vision. “We hope the government continues this effort consistently. It’s an investment in a stronger, higher-quality generation.”

The scene at Karuna Elementary was one of hope and community. As nurses measured heights and checked teeth, teachers and parents looked on, grateful for a program that bridges health and education.

For the students, the experience was a blend of curiosity and care, a moment to feel seen and supported. As the CKG program expands to more dhammaseka across Indonesia, it carries a promise: that every child, regardless of their school’s religious affiliation, deserves a healthy start to a bright future.