Taruna Nusantara Students Gain Leadership Insight at “Palace for Students” Program
Thursday morning (04/16), the footsteps of students of Taruna Nusantara Senior High School from Magelang, Cimahi, and Malang campuses, felt different. Under the bright Jakarta sky, they entered the Presidential Palace complex—a place they had previously only known from history books and television screens.
Through the “Istana untuk Anak Sekolah” (Palace for Students) program initiated by President Prabowo Subianto, the students were invited to experience the center of government firsthand while learning about the nation’s long historical journey. Inside the Palace complex, they toured various areas to gain a closer understanding of Indonesia’s history and governance system.
They not only listened to explanations but also directly observed the rooms that have witnessed important state decision-making processes. From the Merdeka Palace to State Palace, every corner tells stories of leadership, responsibility, and public service.
These spaces have hosted world leaders, facilitated the signing of agreements, and shaped the direction of the nation’s future. For the students, the experience became more than just a visit—it opened a window of imagination toward the future they may one day achieve.
In his remarks, Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi conveyed that President Prabowo believes that the key to national progress lies in the quality of human resources and education. He also emphasized the importance of understanding the consequences of one’s ambitions.
“If you want to achieve a perfect score in chemistry, you must realize that it requires effort—you have to study. If you aspire to join the military or the police, you must understand the requirements. You have to train, study, and build your physical strength,” he said.
Furthermore, he reminded the students that they are a selected generation with a significant responsibility toward the nation. “From today until our last breath, instill in your hearts that you are chosen to serve the nation, the state, and the people of Indonesia,” he emphasized.
Additional guidance was delivered by Minister of Foreign Affairs Sugiono, who highlighted the importance of awareness and attentiveness to one’s surroundings, while discouraging apathy.
“Do not be apathetic. Understand your environment, pay attention to what is around you. If necessary, know even the smallest details,” he stated.
Closing the session, he encouraged the students to dream as high as possible and to commit those dreams into writing.
“Let what you experience here at the Presidential Palace inspire you,” he said.
“Dream as high as you can—do not limit yourselves. Everything begins with a dream. Every success starts from a dream,” he concluded. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (RD/MMB)
