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Sat, 19 Apr 2025
JIMBARAN – A joyful and energetic atmosphere filled the grounds of Widiatmika Elementary School on Thursday, 17 April 2025, during its Kartini Day celebration. Far from being a mere ceremony, the event served as an educational moment to introduce the values of R.A. Kartini's legacy, particularly gender equality and the importance of education for all children, both boys and girls.
The celebration involved students from Grades 1 to 5. Younger students in Grades 1 to 3 participated in a coloring competition themed around Kartini Day, while students in Grades 4 and 5 took part in a bulletin board design competition. Although there was no official overarching theme, the message remained consistent: to introduce Kartini's spirit of struggle and inspire children to dream big.
"The students were incredibly enthusiastic. They truly enjoyed every part of the activity, whether it was coloring or working in teams to create the bulletin boards. This proves that Kartini’s values can be conveyed in fun and meaningful ways," said Ni Nyoman Ira Kurniawati, Head of the Kartini Day Committee at Widiatmika Elementary School.
Ira explained that the main goal was not just to commemorate Kartini as a national hero, but to bring her spirit of resilience into the context of today’s young learners.
"We want the children to know Kartini not just as a historical figure, but as a real-life inspiration. That everyone, regardless of gender, deserves access to education and the opportunity to achieve their dreams," she said.
More than an annual event, Widiatmika Elementary School integrates Kartini’s values into everyday classroom learning. Through history lessons, inspirational storytelling, and simple classroom discussions, students are encouraged to understand the importance of equal rights and the courage to dream. These values are also embedded into subjects such as Bahasa Indonesia, IPAS, and Character Education.
"At school, we emphasize that every child has potential. They need to believe in themselves, speak up, and not be afraid to try new things. We also teach them to respect differences, collaborate, and support one another, regardless of gender," Ira added.
Introducing national figures like R.A. Kartini at an early age is seen as essential by the school. Learning about such role models helps build strong character traits, such as integrity, courage, and a readiness to contribute positively to the community.
This year’s Kartini Day celebration at Widiatmika Elementary School proves that the message of equality does not need to begin in a formal seminar. It can start with creative and simple activities that help children understand that education is a right for all, and that big dreams belong to every child who believes in their own abilities.
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