Surabaya City Government Invites Students to Enrich Holiday with New Experiences

Surabaya (ANTARA) - The Surabaya City Education Department (Disdik) in East Java is encouraging students to use the school holidays to gain new experiences, particularly to enrich their personal development and build character, rather than merely resting from their academic routines.

Head of Surabaya Disdik Febrina Kusumawati stated on Monday that the school holiday period will run from 22 June to 11 July 2026, with teaching and learning activities resuming on Monday, 13 July 2026.

“A holiday does not mean the entire process of learning and character building comes to a halt. Children still need to be guided so they use their time for positive, productive activities that provide beneficial new experiences,” she said.

She added that gadget usage must remain under parental supervision. “Encourage children to do positive activities and do not let the entire holiday be spent just playing on mobile phones or digital devices.”

The appeal is in line with the Surabaya City Government’s policy to promote child protection in the digital space through the ‘Surabaya Without Gadgets’ movement from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. This programme invites families to use the late afternoon and evening hours for interaction, studying together, worship, or other activities without the distraction of electronic devices.

During the holiday period, various circulars issued by the Surabaya City Government remain in effect, including the night-time curfew policy for children, which aims to create a safe environment and prevent children from being outside the home unsupervised at inappropriate times.

“We remind parents, teachers, and schools that all relevant circulars remain in force during the holidays. Ensure children are supervised, especially at night, and do not let the euphoria of moving up a grade lead them into risky activities,” said Head of Disdik Surabaya Febrina Kusumawati.