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Successfully staging iGeo 2023, Indonesia wins four medals
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ndonesia, through the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (MoECRT), in collaboration with the West Java provincial administration, as well as the Alumni Association of the Indonesian Geography Olympiad Team (IA TOGI) successfully held the 19th International Geography Olympiad (iGeo) in Bandung, West Java, from Aug. 8-14. At the 19th iGeo, Indonesia won three silver medals and one bronze medal.
Meanwhile, Romania was the overall champion with three gold medals and one silver medal.
"Congratulations to the participants and champions of the 2023 International Geographical Olympiad. You are change makers, future leaders who will shape our world," said Ministry Expert Staff for Talent Management Tatang Muttaqin at the closing of iGeo 2023 in Bandung, on Sunday night.
On this occasion, Tatang expressed his pride to the participants who had faced challenges during the competition. According to him, iGeo participants are the embodiment of the future and their dedication, creativity and passion for geography astonished him.
“You have uncovered the complexity of our world's problems by proving that the pursuit of knowledge knows no bounds. Your intelligence is a source of optimism and inspires us all to work hard and work together for a better world," said Tatang.
Co-chair of the International Geography Union (UGI) Su Min Shen expressed appreciation to the participants of iGeo, who used the opportunity to be present in Indonesia by learning more about Indonesia's geography.
“This is a rare experience that can inspire you and is priceless. You are our future. Your passion and enthusiasm for geography will contribute to building sustainable, inclusive societies in your respective countries and around the world,” she added.
The acting head of the National Achievement Center at the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (MoECRT), who is also the chairman of iGeo 2023, Hendarman, said that iGeo not only deepened the participants’ knowledge of geography, but also fostered a spirit of collaboration and developed cross-culture communication skills, leadership and tolerance.
"With this spirit, iGeo not only celebrates academic achievements but also forms individuals who are aware of global responsibility who are ready to contribute to finding solutions to world problems that are very complex and interconnected," said Hendarman.
Education, Culture, Research and Technology Minister Nadiem Anwar Makarim opened iGeo 2023 on Aug 8, it had the theme “Creative City for Inclusive Urban Community.” The theme asked the participants to explore the geographical potential by creating cities that are inclusive, innovative and sustainable for all its citizens.
Forty-six countries attended iGeo 2023, comprising 177 students, 89 team leaders, 11 observers, nine task forces, 21 academic teams and judges, and 57 liaison officers. Each country sent its four best students to compete in iGeo 2023.
The four students representing Indonesia were Fiona Zhang from SMA Kristen Petro 1 Surabaya (silver); Dimas Dwi Rachmat Susilo from SMA Al-Kautsar Lampung (silver); Fikri Ghifari Hanifah from SMA Pribadi Bandung (silver); and Mikhaila Rainissa Nugroho from SMA 3 Bogor (Bronze).
Throughout the seven days of iGeo 2023, participants took part in several types of tests, such as the written response test to assess their overall knowledge of geography; the field work test to assess their analytical skills in the field; and the multimedia test to assess their general knowledge of geography.
The exams were carried out on the campus of the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) and Taman Hutan Raya Juanda, Bandung. Apart from the tests, all the delegates also made excursions to various tourist destinations, namely the Geological Museum, Takuban Perahu and NuArt Sculpture Park. Furthermore, the participants were also presented with a cultural evening performance with Saung Angklung Udjo entertainment and the traditional games of terompah, dagongan, sumpitan and balap karung, which were also attended by participants at the Sasana Budaya Ganesha.
One of the silver medalists from Indonesia, Fiona, expressed her gratitude to be able to participate in iGeo 2023.
“I feel very grateful to have the opportunity to compete in iGeo this time, congratulations to the Indonesian team who have fought and given the best results. Hopefully in the future we can maintain our achievements,” said Fiona.
Meanwhile, before participating in the geography competition at iGeo 2023, Fikri continued to take part in national training in stages.
“I also pray, worship, maintain my health by getting enough sleep and exercising. Enthusiastic for all my friends, to achieve the highest possible achievements to make Indonesia proud," said Fikri.
