Dozens of short films created by students enlivened the Central Jakarta Student Film Festival awards ceremony held on Saturday (February 14) under the theme “Care Through Stories.” The festival featured junior and senior high school students, including several beneficiaries of the KJP Plus education assistance program. The event highlighted youth creativity while positioning film as a medium for social reflection and storytelling. It underscored the growing integration of creative expression within the education ecosystem.
The festival, initiated by the Sahabat Jakarta community, was officially opened by Central Jakarta Mayor Arifin. He described the event as a positive platform for channeling the creativity, ideas, and expressions of young people. Through filmmaking, students learn not only about art and technology but also about conveying moral messages, social values, and real-life issues in creative and inspiring ways. Arifin emphasized that such initiatives contribute to character building and critical thinking beyond academic achievement.
“I see this activity as an important part of building an educational ecosystem that does not focus solely on academics, but also on character development, creativity, and critical thinking skills among the younger generation,” Arifin said. He reaffirmed the city administration’s commitment to supporting youth potential in the arts, culture, and creative industries. The festival reflects a broader push to nurture talent within Jakarta’s growing creative economy.
In the senior high school category, Cheklist from SMKN 3 Jakarta won first place, followed by Temaram from SMKN 39 Jakarta in second place, and Retak Tak Bersuara from SMA Kristen Kanaan Jakarta in third. SMAN 77 Jakarta received the Favorite Film award. In the junior high category, Call it Forever from SMPN 5 Jakarta won first place, Evaluasi from SMPN 59 Jakarta placed second, and Kurang Lebih from SMPN 269 Jakarta secured third place as well as Favorite Film. Additional awards were presented for Best Director, Best Poster, and Best Screenwriter, further recognizing technical and creative excellence among participants.
Alexander Jason – Redaksi
