LABUHANBATU SELATAN | INDATANEWS.COM ~ A mix of pride, emotion, and anticipation filled the sports hall of the Ki Hajar Dewantara Foundation in Kotapinang on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, as 446 students officially graduated, marking both the end of their academic journey and the beginning of their entry into the workforce.
Amid applause and tearful moments, a clear message emerged: today's job market demands not only academic credentials but also strong preparation and practical skills.
Of the total graduates, 32 completed junior high school, while 414 graduated from vocational programs—reflecting years of discipline, perseverance, and high expectations from families and educators.
Read Also: Police Swiftly Respond to Collapsing Bridge Threat in Torgamba The ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Foundation Head H. Naga Parlaungan Lubis, M.Pd., Chairperson Hj. Eriani Harahap, S.Pd., Supervisory Board Chairman Andi Syahputra Lubis, S.H., M.H., as well as representatives from the military, police, school leaders, teachers, and hundreds of parents.
ENTERING THE WORKFORCE: Andi Syahputra Lubis emphasizes that graduation marks the beginning of new professional challenges. (PHOTO: Jhon Fitra Sagala)
Practical Education Takes Center Stage
Read Also: Capping Day Marks Milestone for 40 Nursing Students in Kotapinang Behind the celebratory atmosphere, a strong message resonated: education must go beyond awarding diplomas and actively prepare students for real-world challenges.
The Ki Hajar Dewantara Foundation emphasizes hands-on, practical learning rather than focusing solely on infrastructure. Its programs are designed to build job-ready skills across various fields, including nursing assistance, finance and accounting, office administration, information technology and networking, agribusiness, motorcycle engineering, fashion design, cosmetology, and automotive technology.
Each program integrates theory with real-world practice, ensuring graduates are equipped to contribute directly in professional environments.
GRADUATION CEREMONY: Hundreds of graduates from the Ki Hajar Dewantara Foundation pose together during the ceremony. (PHOTO: Jhon Fitra Sagala)
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Among the 446 graduates, five have successfully secured admission to higher education institutions. While modest in number, this achievement is seen as a positive indicator of the institution's improving educational standards.
Supervisory Board Chairman Andi Syahputra Lubis подчеркнул that graduation is only the beginning.
Read Also: Labuhanbatu Selatan Secretary Inducts New School and Health Center Leaders "Some students gaining access to higher education proves that hard work and discipline pay off. This should inspire others to continue striving forward."
Foundation Head Naga Parlaungan Lubis also expressed pride and optimism.
"We are proud when our students continue their education and succeed. In the future, we hope to see even more graduates entering universities and bringing recognition to the school."
The foundation reaffirmed its commitment to producing graduates who are competent, resilient, and competitive in an increasingly demanding job market.
Read Also: Repol Mahdan Reaffirms Commitment to Protect Batak Toba Traditions A Meaningful Milestone for FamiliesThe graduation also serves as a reminder for parents that choosing the right school is a strategic decision—especially in today's competitive labor landscape.
Beyond technical knowledge, the institution prioritizes mental resilience, ethics, and practical competence—qualities now considered essential for long-term success.
The ceremony concluded on an emotional note, with tears marking farewells between students, teachers, and parents—symbolizing a transition into a new phase of life filled with greater responsibilities.
Behind the final embraces were hopes, prayers, and a strong determination to face future challenges.
(IDNC)REPORTER: Jhon Fitra Sagala | EDITOR: Fik Sagala