Six Indonesian students succeeded in making the nation proud on the international stage after winning national championships World Innovative Technology (WIT) Challenge 2024 which was held at Chonnam National University, Yeosu, South Korea. This competition took place in early November and brought together talented students from various countries to compete in coding skills. Uniquely, the majority of these champions come from Eastern Indonesia, such as Papua and Maluku, which often have limited access to education and technology..
The champions who managed to outperform other international participants were Felicia Dahayu from East Java, Jose Norotouw from Papua, Cressya Wianopa from Central Kalimantan, Esra Samuel Weyai from Papua, Uril Algifari from North Maluku, and Fanita Tenouye from Central Papua. These six students are part of an intensive training program organized by Gasing Academy, an educational initiative designed by Prof. John Surya. Gasing Academy focuses on developing mathematics and coding skills among students from remote areas in Indonesia, especially the eastern region which often faces limited educational facilities.
An Inspirational Journey from a Remote Area to the International Stage
Before attending training at Gasing Academy, most of these students had minimal basic mathematics skills. However, through easy-to-understand and fun learning methods, they quickly master basic math and coding skills. Within a few months, these students succeeded in mastering complex concepts which became the basis for their success in this international arena. Gasing Academy's inclusive and effective approach proves that every child, even in remote areas, can achieve global achievements if they have access to quality education.
Their success received appreciation from the Minister of Higher Education, Satryo Brodjonegoro, who saw this achievement as an inspiration for other young generations of Indonesia. According to him, this victory proves that with the right support and guidance, talents from all corners of the country are able to compete at the global level and contribute to the nation. He hopes that this victory can motivate children throughout Indonesia to develop their skills, especially in the fields of technology and science.
The Rise of Talent from Eastern Indonesia
The achievements of these students highlight the great potential hidden in the Eastern Indonesia region, showing that limited access to education is not a barrier for them to excel. With inclusive education initiatives and stronger support from the government and society, this great potential can continue to be developed. Apart from that, it is hoped that the coding skills they acquire will be a provision for the future, considering the importance of mastering technology in the digital era.
It is also hoped that this victory will open the eyes of many parties to improve technology education facilities throughout Indonesia, especially in areas that still have limited access. By providing equal access, young talents in remote areas of the country can be better prepared to compete and contribute to technological development.
Hope for Indonesia's Young Generation
With the spirit of never giving up, these six students have proven that geographical limitations are not a barrier to achieving international achievements. They hope that this achievement can inspire their peers throughout Indonesia to dare to dream big and develop their potential. Apart from being an inspiration, they also carry the message that inclusive education and attention to remote areas are the keys to building a young generation capable of competing globally.
Through the right support, students from any region in Indonesia can achieve their dreams and bring change to the nation. This achievement emphasizes the importance of equitable education, as well as being an invitation for the government and society to care more about education and skills development throughout Indonesia..
