Central Java, April 21, 2025 – The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education (Mendikdasmen), Abdul Mu'ti, reiterated the importance of developing a generation of Indonesian students capable of becoming global citizens without losing their national identity. According to him, being an international student does not mean abandoning one's social or national identity.
"With a strong national identity, we are better prepared to become global citizens," said the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education at the inauguration of the International Class Program at Muhammadiyah Gombong High School, Kebumen, Central Java, on Sunday (20/4).
He explained that there are two keys to Indonesian students becoming competent global citizens. First, strong knowledge and skills, particularly related to 21st-century competencies. Second, mastery of a foreign language is the first step to opening access to various international opportunities.
The Minister of Elementary and Secondary Education stated that there are four key soft skills for the 21st century: communication, critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. "However, we also need two other equally important skills: character and citizenship. With these skills, we can adapt to various situations and determine our future success," he continued.
Furthermore, the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education emphasized the importance of having a growth mindset, the belief that every individual can develop by changing their thinking and behavior. "With this growth mindset, we can also contribute to changing society and building future competencies, while still strengthening our personal identity. Because we cannot reach the world without our identity, skills, and competencies," he explained.
The Head of the International Class Program, Rashif Arka Muhammad, explained that the program has been running since 2021 and currently has 130 students. In this program, most subjects are taught in English—not only as the language of instruction but also in all verbal and nonverbal activities, such as exams, assignments, and paper writing.
This program also equips students with three core competencies: 1) creating applied science-based technology products; 2) internships in coding/programming, design, and electronics and instrumentation; and 3) public speaking skills.
"The main goal of this program is to provide affordable, international-quality education that is accessible to all people, especially in Kebumen Regency," said Rashif.
Meanwhile, Lintang Nariswari, a 12th-grade student at Muhammadiyah Gombong High School, said the program has provided her with valuable experiences, including training, geoscience field trips, and internship opportunities. She even won second place in a district-level English debate competition.
"This program has truly changed my life. My English skills have improved dramatically—from just listening to the language, I'm now more confident speaking. I've also met several amazing people who have broadened my horizons and inspired me. I hope this program continues to grow and become a platform for other children to explore their potential," said Lintang.
