JAKARTA – A healthy school is about more than just cleanliness. It includes good eating habits, physical activity, mental well-being, and caring for the environment. In Indonesia, many schools are stepping up with programs to promote healthy living among students.
One exciting initiative is the AIA Healthiest Schools competition, where schools showcase their health projects. Recently, two schools made waves: SDN Cipedak 01 won the Elementary School category, while SMP IL Kapten Fatubaa took the title for Middle Schools.
These winners will represent Indonesia in a regional competition in Bangkok in July 2026, competing against schools from across the Asia Pacific.
Harsya Prasetyo, President Director of AIA, shared, “We aim to enhance the quality of our youth and embed healthy lifestyles in their education. Our learning module is designed for schools in Asia Pacific, including Indonesia, and is available for free.” This module covers healthy eating, active lifestyles, mental health, and sustainability.
This year, Indonesia had the highest participation, with 2,896 students registering and delivering 359 health projects. Kathryn Parapak, AIA’s Chief Marketing Officer, emphasized that even small steps can lead to significant changes in a school’s environment. “It’s essential to recognize each school’s unique challenges and respond with practical solutions,” she said.
SDN Cipedak 01 Jakarta earned its victory with the GEMARIPAH SEGAR program, aimed at increasing students’ water intake. The initiative raised the percentage of students drinking the recommended two liters of water daily from 12% to a remarkable 98% within a week. The risk of dehydration, previously at 60%, dropped to zero.
On the other hand, SMP IL Kapten Fatubaa, located in East Nusa Tenggara, won with its Huka Upcycling Project. This initiative transforms banana peels into ice cream, compost, and organic fertilizer, involving both local students and those from Timor-Leste. It not only benefits students but also supports the local community and farmers.
Judging criteria for the competition included the relevance of the issues tackled, the suitability of solutions, implementation quality, impact, and sustainability. These projects show that creating healthier schools can be achievable through simple, tailored approaches. They offer valuable insights for other schools aiming to foster inclusive and sustainable learning environments.
As schools continue to innovate, they play a vital role in nurturing both the health of their students and the broader community. With initiatives like these, the future looks hopeful for a healthier generation.
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