Student council as miniature of community life, Deputy Minister says

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia's deputy education minister urged students to join school councils to develop leadership and democratic values, while encouraging schools to strengthen reading habits through weekly library activities.

Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Atip Latipulhayat made the remarks during a visit to the first day of school orientation at State Junior High School 57 in Central Jakarta on Monday.

He said participation in student councils helps students adapt to school life while developing social interaction and decision-making skills.

"Student councils are a miniature of community life. Everyone must learn from an early age how to live and interact in society," Latipulhayat said.

He said student council activities also support the government's Seven Habits of Great Indonesian Children program.

Latipulhayat encouraged students to read at least one book each week to improve literacy and cultivate reading habits.

"I suggest students borrow a book from the library every Monday. Those who finish one book quickly can borrow another, but everyone should complete at least one book each week," he said.

He said teachers could organize storytelling sessions for students to present or discuss the books they had read.

"Students can share what they have read. Completing at least one book each week should become a regular habit," Latipulhayat said.

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Translator: Hana, Kenzu

Editor: Rahmad Nasution

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