Bandung, July 2025 — Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB), through the Directorate of First-Year Programs (Ditsama), continues to make significant strides in preparing a future generation that is adaptive, critical, and globally competitive. One of its flagship initiatives, Eksplorasi Cendekia, exemplifies this commitment as part of the ITB Pre-University Program, held in collaboration with Salam Ganesha Academy.

Over the course of six days, high school students from across Indonesia engaged in a multidimensional learning experience that integrated academic exploration, social insight, and cultural immersion. The program was conducted across two ITB campuses: Ganesha and Jatinangor.

Participants gained direct access to ITB’s academic environment through thematic classes led by faculty members from various disciplines, hands-on laboratory explorations, and issue-based discussions framed in a challenge-based learning format. Additionally, students were introduced to the national innovation ecosystem through a field visit to Mycotech Eco Factory. The program concluded with a Cultural Trip designed to foster a spirit of collaboration across regions and backgrounds.

Dr. Oktofa Yudha Sudrajad, S.T., M.S.M., Ph.D., Head of the ITB Pre-University Program, emphasized that Eksplorasi Cendekia is part of Ditsama’s long-term strategy to identify and nurture talented students even before they enter university. “This program does more than introduce students to campus life—it instills social awareness, interdisciplinary thinking, and character development at an early stage,” he remarked.

Throughout the program, students collaborated in groups to design projects addressing real-world issues within the campus environment. The process was guided by faculty members, facilitators, and collaborative assistants from Ditsama, who played a key role in fostering exploration and critical reflection. “Our hope is that by the end of this program, participants will have a clearer sense of what they want to achieve—and, more importantly, what problems they wish to solve—based on the knowledge and experience they’ve gained over these six days,” added Faisal Alviansyah, Program Director of Salam Ganesha Academy.

Participant enthusiasm was palpable in their reflections. “The activities were super exciting! I learned so much about different faculties and study programs at ITB. I had no idea there was a dedicated game development lab here,” said Aufa from Sragen. Faro from Surabaya shared a similar sentiment: “It was such a fun experience! I met new friends, explored so many new things at ITB—it was truly an amazing opportunity for a high school student.”

Eksplorasi Cendekia affirms ITB’s commitment—through the Directorate of First-Year Programs and Salam Ganesha Academy—to make education a powerful instrument of transformation, starting from the pre-university level. More than a simple orientation, this initiative provides a space for young scholars to discover their potential, chart their path, and begin crafting a meaningful contribution to the future of the nation.