Artika Sari Devi Stresses Character Building and Parent-School Collaboration

Puteri Indonesia 2004, Artika Sari Devi, has emphasised that character building is a fundamental aspect that must be prioritised in children’s education, surpassing mere academic achievement. According to her, strong collaboration between parents and schools is necessary to ensure a child’s holistic development. “Children not only learn to respect themselves, but also to respect others. Empathy is the value we seek,” Artika said at the launch of Veritas Intercultural School’s (VIS) new identity in Jakarta, which coincided with National Children’s Day. The actress argued that the school’s involvement in supporting each individual’s development means parents are no longer simply “entrusting” their children. Instead, parents become an integral part of the educational process. She also encouraged schools to provide space for children to explore their potential according to their respective interests. Artika shared her personal experience of one of her children receiving full support from the school while pursuing fencing to become an athlete, without neglecting classroom learning obligations. “Children have diverse intelligences. Not just academic, but also art, sports, languages, and other fields. That is what we appreciate from the school,” she added. Facing the digital era, Artika acknowledged that parenting Generation Alpha presents unique challenges as they grow up alongside technology. She advised parents to act as good listeners while still setting clear boundaries on the use of digital devices. Echoing this sentiment, Veritas Intercultural School Principal Lauren Sarinah stated that the function of schools has now evolved. Schools are no longer solely tasked with delivering academic material, but also with preparing children to face life’s realities through strengthening character, critical thinking, communication, and collaboration. “Our hope is to work together with parents to make children successful, not only academically, but also in their lives,” Lauren said.