Presidential Visit for the Launch of Education Digitalization

Daftar Sbmptn – The Deputy Mayor of Bekasi, along with officials from the Education Office and several technical officials, conducted a site visit to State Junior High School (SMPN) 4 Bekasi on Tuesday morning. The visit was conducted to ensure that all preparations at the school were running optimally ahead of the arrival of the President of the Republic of Indonesia, who is scheduled to attend the launch of the Education Digitalization program. The Bekasi City Government is placing great emphasis on this event as it represents a crucial milestone in strengthening digital transformation in the education sector.

On the occasion, the Deputy Mayor stated that the President’s visit to SMPN 4 demonstrates the central government’s serious attention to the development of school digitalization. This program aims not only to strengthen the use of technology in the learning process but also to ensure that schools in the region are able to keep up with current developments and modern educational needs. “This is an honor for Bekasi City. The President will be present in person to assess our readiness to implement education digitalization. Therefore, all preparations must be thoroughly prepared,” he said.

Upon arrival at SMPN 4, the group immediately toured several rooms that had been prepared for the visit. The Deputy Mayor inspected the classrooms that will serve as pilot locations for digital learning. The room is equipped with supporting devices such as a smartboard, interactive projector, high-speed internet connection, and several computers and tablets specifically provided to demonstrate technology-based learning practices. He also ensured that each device was functioning properly and could be used optimally when presented to the President.

In addition to technological facilities, the Deputy Mayor also evaluated the readiness of public facilities and infrastructure, such as the cleanliness of the school environment, the tidiness of classrooms, the readiness of security personnel, and the technical aspects of welcoming state guests. He emphasized that the President’s visit was not merely a formality, but a significant opportunity to demonstrate Bekasi City’s commitment to educational transformation. “Not only must digital devices be ready, but all aspects, from cleanliness to security protocols, must meet standards. We want to convey the best possible impression that Bekasi is ready to become a digital-based education city,” he said.

During the inspection, the school also showcased several learning innovations it has implemented, such as the use of a Learning Management System (LMS), hybrid learning methods, and digital literacy activities that have been running for the past year. The principal of SMPN 4 explained that his school has long been preparing to welcome the digital era, making the President’s visit a morale booster for all teachers and students. “We’ve been adapting since the pandemic. Now, we’re further strengthening the integration of technology into learning. The President’s presence is certainly a source of pride for our school,” he said.

Furthermore, the Deputy Mayor also provided guidance for teachers to maintain the quality of learning even as technology becomes increasingly dominant. He emphasized that digitalization does not replace the role of teachers, but rather facilitates their delivery and increases the effectiveness of the teaching and learning process. “Teachers remain the center of education. Technology is a tool. What’s important is how teachers can maximize digital tools to create creative and interactive learning,” he explained.

The inspection was also attended by a team from the Bekasi City Education Office, who checked technical aspects such as internet network stability, school server readiness, and coordination with digital device providers. Several technicians were seen retesting the equipment to ensure there were no technical issues during the visit. “We want to ensure that everything runs smoothly on the day. There’s no room for technical errors when the President is present,” said one technician from the Communication and Informatics Office.

In addition to inspecting the facilities, the school is also preparing several students to showcase their skills in digital presentations. The students will demonstrate how they use modern learning devices and applications, such as interactive presentations, digital simulations, and e-learning platforms. The Deputy Mayor encouraged the students to remain confident during their performances. He emphasized that this activity is an important part of demonstrating the readiness of the younger generation to face the digital era. “This is your opportunity to show that Bekasi students are capable of competing in the world of digital education. Show your best,” he said, motivating them.

Furthermore, the Deputy Mayor emphasized that digitalizing education is not just about providing devices, but also ensuring the proper functioning of supporting infrastructure. He stated that the Bekasi City Government has committed to improving the internet network in all schools, including ensuring the availability of training for teachers to enable them to utilize technology optimally. Several other schools are also preparing to follow SMPN 4’s lead in implementing digitalization more comprehensively.

Toward the end of the visit, the Deputy Mayor expressed optimism that the launch event, which will be conducted by the President, will run smoothly. He hopes this momentum will drive the acceleration of digital transformation across all schools in Bekasi City. He believes the President’s presence not only provides moral support but also opens up opportunities for other schools to access more modern technological facilities. “We want Bekasi City to become a pilot city for the digitalization of education in Indonesia. The support of the central government is certainly very meaningful,” he said.

With various preparations underway, SMPN 4 Bekasi is now ready to welcome the President’s visit to launch the Digitalization of Education program. All elements, from the city government, schools, students, and technical staff, have strived to provide their best to ensure the event is a success and provides tangible benefits to the world of education. This visit is expected to be a major step towards a more modern, inclusive, and technology-based future for Indonesian education.