People's School Student Joins National Flag-Raising Team for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

A student from a "Sekolah Rakyat," or People's School, has been selected to join the elite Pasukan Pengibar Bendera Pusaka (Paskibraka), the national flag-raising troop, for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony at the Presidential Palace. Minister of State Secretary Prastyo Hadi expressed pride in Ismi Ulfaida, a 16-year-old from West Polewali Mandar, Sulawesi Barat, being among the 76 selected members representing all 38 provinces. Hadi emphasized that the selection process rigorously adhered to established criteria, ensuring that competence was the sole determinant for inclusion. He admitted that the news of a "Sekolah Rakyat" student's success was a surprise even to him and the organizing committee, as they had not yet reported the detailed specifics to President Prabowo. The Minister stressed the demanding nature of Paskibraka training, highlighting the need for both physical and mental readiness. Participants must perform flawlessly while aware that their actions are being observed by the entire nation, a pressure he described as significant. The inclusion of Ismi Ulfaida underscores the commitment to meritocracy and provides inspiration, demonstrating that students from all educational backgrounds can achieve the highest levels of national service and recognition.

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And when we received information that one of the selected Paskibra members turned out to be from a Sekolah Rakyat, we were, frankly, also proud.