siswa

Siswa is the Indonesian word used to refer to a learner enrolled in formal schooling at the primary and secondary levels. In everyday usage, it is generally treated as gender-neutral, although the feminine form siswi is sometimes used to denote a female student. The term pelajar is another common synonym, often used more broadly for students in various educational settings. For university students, the term mahasiswa is typically used instead of siswa.

In the Indonesian education system, a student commonly attends Sekolah Dasar (elementary), Sekolah Menengah Pertama (junior high), and Sekolah Menengah Atas (senior high) or equivalent institutions. Siswa participate in classes, complete assignments, and take examinations as part of their academic progression. They may also engage in extracurricular activities and student organizations, such as Organisasi Siswa Intra Sekolah (OSIS), a school-level student council that coordinates events and community service.

Rights and responsibilities

Siswa have the right to access education in a safe and conducive environment and to receive instruction under applicable national and local regulations. They also bear responsibilities, including regular attendance, adherence to school rules, respect for teachers and peers, and the timely completion of assignments and assessments.

Variations

In some contexts and regions, additional terms such as murid are used, particularly in religious or pesantren settings. Overall, siswa remains the standard term for learners in Indonesia’s compulsory schooling years.