Iwan Koswara Stresses that Affective Aspects Are More Important than Cognition Alone

Bandung – A member of Commission V of the West Java Provincial DPRD, Iwan Koswara, emphasised the importance of strengthening the affective aspect in education. He said education cannot be limited to cognitive abilities or intellectual intelligence; it must also build character, empathy and humanitarian values in learners. Koswara stated that for a long time the education system has been too focused on academic achievements, such as exam results and mastery of material. Meanwhile, the affective aspects related to attitude, morality and social sensitivity also play a very important role in shaping a generation with integrity. “Education is not only about the ability to think or cognition. Affective elements, such as attitude, empathy and character, must also be a main focus in the learning process,” he told Republika at the West Java DPRD building on Thursday, 5 February 2026. He said that a balance between cognition and affect will produce human resources who are not only intellectually smart, but also possess social concern and responsibility towards the environment and the community. He argued that strengthening affective aspects can be done through various approaches, from inculcating positive values in schools, reinforcing character education, to the teacher’s role as a role model for students. In addition, Koswara urged that education policies in West Java give greater space for character development and the formation of students’ attitudes. Thus, schools would not only be places for transferring knowledge, but spaces for forming a complete personality. He stated that if affective aspects are strengthened from an early age, the younger generation in West Java will grow into individuals who are not only clever but also have integrity, care, and the ability to contribute positively to society. “When cognition and affect run in balance, the goal of education to produce a quality generation will be easier to achieve,” he said.