SMP & SMA Cahaya Rancamaya Islamic Boarding School received a working visit from the Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Dr. Fajar Riza Ul Haq, M.A, on November 24, 2025. This visit was part of the Ministry’s agenda to review the implementation of deep learning, STEM development programs, and the school’s readiness in supporting the Garuda School Program.
During the visit, the Deputy Minister was welcomed by the school leadership, teachers, and student representatives. Following the opening session, he proceeded to review the exhibition area showcasing various student projects and research works from both junior and senior high school levels. The exhibition reflected Cahaya Rancamaya’s commitment to developing project-based education, scientific research, and applied technology.
Several works that drew special attention included an Arduino-based distance-measuring radar, bioethanol research from three types of fungi, STEM experiments, simple sensor-based innovations, as well as biology and physics projects developed through inquiry-based learning. Each student group presented their research process, starting from planning, experimentation, and analysis, to the implementation of results.
The Deputy Minister expressed his appreciation for the quality of the projects and the students’ ability to explain their research processes. He emphasized that the deep learning approach applied at Cahaya Rancamaya aligns with the government’s vision to promote meaningful, student-centered learning that cultivates higher-order thinking skills. According to him, the processes practiced by the students—observing, experimenting, evaluating, and improving—are essential competencies that must continue to be strengthened in schools.
He also conveyed that strengthening scientific and technological literacy is a strategic step in preparing the younger generation to face the challenges of the digital era. Schools that successfully establish a research and innovation ecosystem based on STEM play a significant role in accelerating national education transformation.
The school explained that Cahaya Rancamaya has integrated research-based learning into the curriculum through experimental projects, teacher mentoring, laboratory activities, and the habituation of learning by doing within the boarding environment. This approach not only enhances students’ academic understanding but also shapes their character to be more independent, creative, and responsible.
This visit became an important momentum for Cahaya Rancamaya IBS to strengthen its commitment to creating an innovative and adaptive learning environment. The support and appreciation from the Deputy Minister affirmed that the school’s development direction is aligned with the Ministry’s policies on improving learning quality and fostering a research culture within educational institutions.
Cahaya Rancamaya will continue to advance deep learning practices, enrich research facilities, and expand opportunities for students to experiment, enabling the school to produce a generation that is ethical, excellent, and ready to compete at the national and global levels.
