������Ƶ

ITB Rector, Prof. Dr. Ir. Tatacipta Dirgantara, M.T., served as the ceremony commander. On this occasion, he delivered a speech from the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia, Prof. Brian Yuliarto, themed “Universal Participation to Actualize Quality Education for All”.

“Education is not merely a place to learn. It is the heart of civilization. A space where intellect, character, and the nation’s future are shaped. It is the birthplace where awareness and collaboration, two things that we desperately need today,” he said.

The public was reminded that actualizing quality education for all requires a collective effort. Education cannot be carried out alone. The government needs public support. Schools must synergize with families, and universities should be closely connected with industries and communities.

“So–collaboration is key. Collaboration between central and regional governments in formulating responsive and adaptive policies; between universities and industries in equipping graduates with future competencies; between teachers and parents in nurture children’s character from an early age; as well as between researchers and policy makers to ensure that research impacts society–not just gathers dust on shelves.”

The government fully acknowledges that education is a long-term investment in the nation’s future. Therefore, the government launched initiatives such as Sekolah Rakyat (People's School) and Sekolah Unggulan Garuda (Garuda Flagship School) to reach children from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, expand access to scholarships such as the Indonesian Smart Card (KIP), University KIP, LPDP (Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education), and various domestic and international research and innovation grants – while also improving the academic qualifications and professionalism of teachers and lectures, so that Indonesia’s education system can truly compete globally.

Additionally, through the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, the government is working to build impactful education through five core strategies: focus on outcomes and impact, ensure research and innovation address real-world issues, position science as a solution to socio-ecological issues, promote downstream application of research for public welfare, and implement transparent, accountable evaluation.

The ceremony concluded with heartfelt gratitude and the highest appreciation to all educators, lecturers, education personnel, researchers, innovators, and all stakeholders, including parents and community activists. The Rector expressed hope that this National Education Day can become a starting point to strengthen synergy and commitment in building an education system that is not only high in quality but also equitable, relevant, and future-oriented.

Reporter: Erika Winfellina Sibarani (Mathematics, 2021)
Translator: Senandung Shauma Bidadari (Management, 2026)