Jakarta, Sept. 3 -- The Ministry of Social Affairs said Wednesday that the Sekolah Rakyat, or People's School, initiative is beginning to show measurable benefits for students and their families just months after its launch.

"After three months, we conducted an evaluation. In general, the schools are running well and have started to make an impact that is being felt by the students and their families," Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf said in Jakarta.

Yusuf acknowledged that the toughest period came at the start of the learning process, but said conditions have since stabilized.

Using medical records for both students and teachers, the ministry identified health problems such as anemia and dental issues, which could then be addr...