April 27 – May 2, 2025 – Jakarta International University (JIU) embarked on an exciting outreach trip from April 27 to May 2, 2025, covering the cities of Medan in North Sumatra and Banda Aceh in Aceh Province. The goal? To introduce JIU to new communities, expand its network of partner schools, and inspire prospective students to consider studying at a global university in Jakarta.

The journey began in Medan on April 28, where the JIU team kicked off school visits with a warm welcome at Harapan Bangsa Medan High School. Principal Mrs. Suherty, who has led the school since its establishment in 2006, shared about the school’s strong community focus and diverse student body. JIU introduced its scholarship opportunities, providing flyers and digital resources for graduating students.

Next, at Thomas Alva Edison High School, the team met Principal Mrs. Suhamaya. The school supports many students from lower-income backgrounds, and although no immediate presentation could be arranged, there was a shared enthusiasm about potential scholarship paths—especially for those with strong English proficiency.

The day continued with a visit to Markus High School, a Christian-based institution in downtown Medan. Principal Mrs. Maya Pasaribu welcomed the team and expressed interest in collaborating around Japanese language education, which aligns with many of her students’ interests. Plans were discussed for future seminars and student engagement.

On April 29, JIU joined a pastors’ meeting under the Haleluya Inter Service (HIS) Foundation, which brought together over 20 pastors from across North Sumatra. JIU shared its mission, programs, and scholarship process. The enthusiastic response from church leaders reflected a shared vision for supporting youth in higher education.

School visits resumed on April 30. At Wiyata Dharma High School, Principal Mr. Hara Simamora discussed the socio-economic diversity of his students and welcomed JIU’s scholarship initiative. At Methodist 2 High School, one of Medan’s largest and most reputable schools, the team met Mr. Kusno, who highlighted opportunities for JIU to join their regional academic events. The day ended at Methodist 5 High School, where Principal Mrs. Jusna welcomed the idea of JIU presenting directly to students in the future.

May 1, though recognized as International Labor Day and a national holiday, became a strategic moment for the JIU team to expand its outreach. Rather than pausing activities, the team visited several of Medan’s top-performing schools—Budi Murni 1 Catholic Senior High School, Sutomo 1 Senior High School, and Santo Thomas Senior High School—where they shared JIU’s brochures and promotional materials to spark interest and encourage future engagement.

The trip culminated on May 2 in Banda Aceh, led by JIU’s Rector, Mr. Agus. At Methodist Senior High School, Principal Mr. Mardin Laoli engaged in meaningful discussions about student diversity and potential partnerships. The final visit was to Budi Dharma Catholic Senior High School, where Vice Principal Mr. Oslen Rajagukguk showed strong interest in future collaboration, including the possibility of hosting entrance tests and seminars on campus.

This journey marked a significant step in expanding JIU’s reach and nurturing new relationships in North Sumatra and Aceh. With deep appreciation for the warm welcomes and meaningful conversations, JIU is excited about the future—and the many students who may soon call Jakarta International University their home.