Pinrang Student Who Hacked NASA's Security System Chooses Unhas
Makassar (ANTARA) - Rehan, a student at SMA Negeri 8 Pinrang, South Sulawesi, who managed to breach NASA’s security system, has firmly chosen to pursue his studies at Universitas Hasanuddin (Unhas) in Makassar.
Unhas Rector Prof Dr Jamaluddin Jompa (JJ) stated in Makassar on Wednesday that the university has granted Rehan a golden ticket as recognition of his international achievement, which received acknowledgement from NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration).
Rehan has recorded a proud achievement after successfully identifying a flaw in NASA’s security system.
This discovery has placed him in the Hall of Fame (HoF) and earned him an official letter of recognition for his contribution in detecting vulnerabilities in the US space agency’s system.
Prof JJ explained that through this special ticket scheme, Rehan gains access to continue his studies in the Informatics Engineering programme at the Faculty of Engineering without going through the regular entrance exam route for the 2026/2027 academic year.
This policy serves as a tangible form of the institution’s support for talented young individuals from various backgrounds.
Prof JJ emphasised that this step is not merely a momentary appreciation but part of the campus’s long-term commitment to facilitating the sustainable development of students’ interests and talents.
“This recognition is not just a form of appreciation but also an investment in the nation’s future. We want to ensure that talents like Rehan have the space to grow, learn, and contribute to technological development,” he clarified.
Furthermore, Prof JJ stressed that Unhas will continue to open strategic opportunities for high-achieving students, including providing Rehan access to capacity-building programmes such as double degrees abroad and relevant international collaborations.
“This is not the last. Unhas will continue to facilitate the interests and talents of the younger generation. Indonesian children have big dreams, and we believe they are capable of becoming pioneers in informatics or other fields, and able to compete with other countries,” he added.
According to the Rector, Rehan’s achievement through self-taught learning proves that great potential can emerge from anyone. This momentum is hoped to serve as broad inspiration, as well as a reminder that learning spaces can be showcases for the birth of the nation’s outstanding talents.
Meanwhile, Rehan expressed his gratitude for the opportunity given and his commitment to continue developing his capacity in the field of technology.
Rehan also delivered a message to the younger generation to not hesitate in developing their potential, even when facing limitations.
“To my friends, if you have talent, keep developing it. Don’t be pessimistic just because of limitations, including economic factors,” Rehan added.