EduAsiaNews, Jakarta — Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Wamen Diktisaintek), Prof. Stella Christie, conducted a working visit to Universitas Negeri Jakarta on March 3, 2026, to directly review the readiness of the selection process for prospective Principals (Cakepsek) and Vice-Principals (Cawakepsek) of Garuda Excellent High Schools. The event was held at SFD Tower B, 10th Floor.
The Deputy Minister’s visit was welcomed by UNJ Rector, Prof. Komarudin, along with Vice Rectors and faculty leaders. In his remarks, the Rector expressed appreciation for the visit as a tangible demonstration of the government’s commitment to ensuring the quality and integrity of the Garuda Excellent School program.
“The presence of Prof. Stella to provide direct guidance reflects a sincere effort to ensure that Garuda Excellent Schools are established on a foundation of strong leadership and governance,” said Prof. Komarudin.
During a dialogue with UNJ leadership, Prof. Stella emphasized that Garuda Excellent Schools are a national strategic program receiving direct attention from Prabowo Subianto. According to her, the schools are designed to provide access to high-quality education for outstanding students from diverse social and economic backgrounds.
“The development of these schools is monitored directly by the President, demonstrating the country’s serious commitment to building an inclusive, globally competitive education ecosystem,” Prof. Stella explained.
In a warm exchange, Prof. Komarudin also recalled that the President’s son, Didit Prabowo, previously attended Labschool UNJ, further strengthening the historical relationship between UNJ and the advancement of national excellence in education.
Meanwhile, Prof. Ifan Iskandar, UNJ Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, and Alumni, highlighted UNJ’s role as one of the selected universities preparing students for the Garuda Excellent School program through a transformational approach across selected schools.
“UNJ is involved in preparing students’ academic capabilities for the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) and English proficiency for the IELTS exam,” he said.
Prof. Ifan also mentioned that UNJ mentors two schools: SMA Negeri 10 Fajar Harapan in Banda Aceh and SMA Unggul Del in North Sumatra.
“In this context, UNJ is fully engaged in the formation of Garuda Excellent Schools—from facilitating the selection of Principals, Vice-Principals, and teachers to preparing outstanding students for overseas scholarships,” he explained.
He added that Prof. Stella’s visit also included providing direct guidance to prospective Principals and Vice-Principals who will be appointed at Garuda Excellent Schools. Additionally, UNJ has been entrusted with administering tests and interviews for the selection of prospective teachers for the program.
