International Competition: Golden Gate School Students Win 6 Gold Medals

SORONG — Students from Golden Gate School (GGS) Sorong achieved an outstanding accomplishment by winning six gold medals and one silver medal at the International Science and Invention Fair (ISIF) held in Bali.

The competition was organized by the Indonesian Young Scientist Association in collaboration with researchers from 24 countries across Europe and Asia. GGS Sorong sent seven teams consisting of junior and senior high school students to participate, both online and onsite.

The research topics presented in the competition included Mathematics and Sex Education for teenagers. The Mathematics project was presented in English during the onsite session in Bali.

One of the silver medal–winning teams conducted research on complementary foods for infants (MPASI) using mackerel, which they processed into instant noodle products ready to brew.

The Vice Principal of GGS Sorong, Ezra Imanuel Suwarno, stated that preparation for the competition took three to six months, supported fully by teachers and parents. He also expressed hope that the local government would give more serious attention to student research development so that the scientific potential of Papua can progress even further.

One of the gold medalists, Felisia Umpain, explained that their research explored the Pythagorean Theorem with the aim of helping other students better understand this fundamental mathematical concept.

Meanwhile, Seril Umpain, who won gold in the category of teenage sex education, emphasized the importance of early sex education in Sorong to help reduce the high number of HIV/AIDS cases in the region.

Parents of the participating students also shared their positive responses.
Barnike Kalami, parent of one of the winners, expressed pride in the students’ achievements and confidence that Papuan children are highly capable of competing at the international level.

Another parent, Yormina Iek, said she was both emotional and happy to see her child confidently presenting research in English before international judges. She also urged the government to strengthen educational quality in Papua so that more young people can excel.

Yanti Mubarak, another parent, expressed deep appreciation for the teachers of GGS Sorong who guided the students so well, enabling them to perform strongly in an international competition.