EduAsiaNews, Jakarta — Sakurako Kato, a student at Universitas Pembangunan Nasional “Veteran” Jakarta (UPNVJ), has been selected for the Google Student Ambassador (GSA) 2026 program. Initiated by Google, the program provides students with opportunities to develop technology skills, expand their networks, and promote digital literacy and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) on university campuses.
According to initial information, Sakurako is among approximately 2,000 students selected through a competitive process involving around 81,000 applicants from universities across Indonesia.
The achievement gives Sakurako, a student in the Film, Television and Media Studies program, an opportunity to develop her digital competencies while helping introduce technology to fellow students.
News of her selection for Google Student Ambassador 2026 was shared through her personal Instagram account, @sakurako_kato. In the post, Sakurako expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for beginning a new journey alongside selected students from universities across the country.
The Google Student Ambassador program allows participants to deepen their understanding of Google technologies, including developments in AI and its applications in academic activities and everyday life. Participants are also encouraged to build communities, share knowledge, and promote the creative and responsible use of technology.
An Opportunity to Learn and Contribute to Campus Life
For Sakurako, becoming a Google Student Ambassador is not merely a personal achievement but also a starting point for gaining broader experience and building networks with students who share an interest in technological developments.
She expressed enthusiasm for learning about digital innovations, meeting participants from diverse backgrounds, and developing skills that can benefit the communities around her.
Her participation is also expected to help introduce AI applications more widely among UPNVJ students, particularly in supporting learning, creativity, productivity, and the development of skills relevant to future needs.
Amid rapid technological advances, the ability to understand and use AI appropriately has become an important competency for university students. Technology use involves more than mastering digital tools; it also requires critical thinking, academic integrity, and an understanding of ethical considerations and responsible use.
Through the program, Sakurako will have the opportunity to gain experience and share her knowledge with fellow students through discussions, community activities, and digital literacy initiatives on campus.
UPNVJ Strengthens Students’ Digital Competencies
The selection of a UPNVJ student for Google Student Ambassador 2026 illustrates student participation in a skills-development program organized by a global technology company.
The achievement aligns with UPNVJ’s efforts to encourage students to develop skills beyond the classroom through competitions, collaboration, innovation, and participation in national and international networks.
In this context, participation in programs such as Google Student Ambassador is expected to extend beyond individual achievement and deliver broader benefits to the university community through knowledge exchange and a stronger culture of innovation.
Going forward, UPNVJ students’ involvement in technology-development programs is expected to strengthen a learning environment that adapts to digital advances. It also supports the university’s efforts to prepare graduates who are competent, innovative, and ethical, and who can harness technology to make positive contributions to society.(www.upnvj.ac.id)
