EduAsiaNews, Banjarmasin – Alexander Dwiki Hermawan, a student at Universitas Lambung Mangkurat (ULM), has achieved national recognition by winning Second Honorable Mention in the 2026 National Outstanding Student Selection (Pilmapres). His achievement demonstrates that students with disabilities are equally capable of excelling and competing at the national level.
Alexander is a student in the Special Education Study Program at the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP) ULM and has low vision. He was among the finalists of the 2026 National Pilmapres, organized by the Directorate of Learning and Student Affairs under the Directorate General of Higher Education, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek). The competition was held at Universitas Multimedia Nusantara (UMN), Tangerang, Banten, from August 4 to 8, 2026.
The 2026 National Pilmapres marked a historic milestone as it was the first time that the Outstanding Student with Disabilities category was introduced at the national level. The inclusion of this category represents an effort to provide equal opportunities and a platform for students with disabilities to demonstrate their academic achievements, creativity, leadership, and accomplishments.
Alexander’s advancement to the national level followed a rigorous selection process and intense competition. Before qualifying for the national competition, he participated in the regional selection conducted through the Higher Education Service Institution (LLDIKTI) Region XI of Kalimantan. Through the successive selection stages, Alexander advanced to become one of 16 finalists in the Student with Disabilities category competing in the 2026 National Pilmapres.
ULM Rector Prof. Dr. Ahmad Alim Bachri expressed his appreciation and pride in Alexander’s achievement, which brought recognition to ULM and South Kalimantan at the national level. He emphasized that the achievement was not merely an individual accomplishment but also reflected the importance of providing equal opportunities for all students to develop their potential.
“Alexander’s achievement is a source of pride for the entire ULM community. He has demonstrated that every student has the potential to excel when provided with opportunity, support, and an equitable environment. His perseverance and determination in reaching the national level serve as an excellent example for other ULM students,” Ahmad Alim Bachri said.
He reaffirmed ULM’s commitment to strengthening an inclusive educational ecosystem while supporting the development of all students, including students with disabilities.
“We want the university to be a place where no student is left behind because of a disability. ULM will continue to promote inclusive access to education, strengthen support systems, and provide the widest possible opportunities for students to achieve at both national and international levels,” he said.
In the Pilmapres selection for students with disabilities, participants were assessed not only on academic achievements but also through a comprehensive evaluation covering Outstanding Achievements, Creative Ideas, English communication skills, critical thinking, creativity, leadership, teamwork, self-confidence, and concern for fellow participants.
Alexander said the achievement meant more to him than simply receiving an award, as it provided an opportunity to demonstrate that disability should not prevent anyone from pursuing dreams, creating meaningful work, or achieving success.
“This achievement is not merely about the award I received. It is about the opportunity to demonstrate that disability does not prevent someone from having dreams, creating, and achieving. I hope that what I have accomplished can inspire and encourage other students with disabilities,” Alexander said.
For Alexander, reaching the national level also provided an opportunity to highlight the importance of equal opportunities for students with disabilities. He believes that an inclusive educational environment enables every student to develop their abilities and make meaningful contributions.
“I represented ULM and South Kalimantan, but more importantly, I also carried the hopes of my fellow students with disabilities. We want equal opportunities to learn, grow, compete, and contribute to society,” he said.
Alexander’s achievement at the 2026 National Pilmapres is expected to inspire a stronger culture of achievement and inclusive education within higher education institutions. It also demonstrates that support, equal opportunities, and an inclusive educational environment can empower students with disabilities to develop their potential and make meaningful contributions to society and the nation.
