Implementasi Program Gerakan Kembali Bersekolah Bertajuk ‘Pappasikolai Anakta’ di Desa Katumbangan Kecamatan Campalagian Kabupaten Polewali Mandar

This study aims to analyze the implementation of the Back to School Movement program titled 'Pappasikolai Anakta' in addressing Out-of-School Children (ATS) in Katumbangan Village, Campalagian District, Polewali Mandar Regency. The ATS issue in West Sulawesi requires precise policy interventions integrated with local cultural wisdom. A descriptive qualitative method was employed, collecting data through in-depth interviews with 18 key informants, field observations, and documentation studies of ATS verification and validation data. The analytical framework utilizes Merilee S. Grindle's policy implementation model, examining both policy content and context. Results indicate that out of 30 targeted out-of-school children, 16 were successfully intervened and committed to returning to school. Specifically, 1 child returned to formal education at UPTD SMKN 1 Campalagian, while 15 children were redirected to non-formal equivalency programs due to age limits and economic demands. Program success was driven by the integration of the local cultural phrase 'Pappasikolai Anakta' which minimized cultural resistance. However, implementation still faces constraints such as limited tutor incentive budgets and lack of dedicated village funding. The study recommends institutionalizing dedicated ATS budgets within Village Funds and strengthening non-formal learning centers.