More than 200 principals, teachers, and education officials from over 30 trilingual schools across Indonesia recently convened at Puhua Trilingual School in Central Java. The gathering served as a forum for Chinese-language education and celebrated several institutional milestones.
The event marked the 120th anniversary of Purwokerto Chinese School, the 20th anniversary of Puhua Trilingual School, and the first anniversary of the school’s Confucius Classroom. The auditorium featured art installations of red, white, and blue paper umbrellas forming the phrases “Education for All” and “I Love Indonesia.”
A Strategic Shift in Language Learning
Puhua Trilingual School, which serves more than 1,000 students across two campuses, is emerging as a notable example of Chinese-language education. Principal Chen Tao noted that local families are increasingly viewing Chinese as a gateway to broader professional and educational opportunities rather than just an additional language.
This shift is evident in the classroom, where rote memorization is being replaced by experiential learning. Teacher Opsie Emalia Putri highlighted the use of hands-on activities, including calligraphy, paper-cutting, Chinese chess, and traditional music, to help students experience the language.
Promoting Inclusivity and Diplomacy
The school’s environment is characterized by its inclusiveness, bringing together students from various religious and ethnic backgrounds. Sjahriati Rochmah, assistant to Indonesia’s Cabinet Secretariat, emphasized the importance of children from different backgrounds growing together in a shared environment.
Yudil Chatim, former Education and Culture Attache of the Indonesian Embassy in Beijing, also praised this inclusive approach. Meanwhile, Chinese consul general in Surabaya Ye Su described trilingual schools as an crucial model for language education in Indonesia.
Beyond the Campus Walls
The impact of the curriculum is extending into the home, with parents sometimes attempting to write Chinese characters after seeing their children’s progress. Parents such as Tifany and Meliana, whose children study the Guzheng and traditional dance, indicated they would support their children should they choose to continue their studies in China.
The Confucius Classroom has also expanded its reach into local communities and universities through calligraphy programs and cultural exhibitions. Zhang Jinghuo, the director of the classroom, described the institution as a bridge connecting China and Indonesia.
Future Outlook
Given the current trajectory, trilingual education models may continue to serve as a primary framework for Chinese-language instruction in the region. The continued expansion of the Confucius Classroom could lead to further integration between Indonesian universities and Chinese educational institutions.
the increasing interest from local families may result in a higher number of Indonesian students seeking higher education opportunities in China in the coming years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What anniversaries were celebrated during the forum?
The event marked the 120th anniversary of Purwokerto Chinese School, the 20th anniversary of Puhua Trilingual School, and the first anniversary of the school’s Confucius Classroom.
Who were the founding partners of the Confucius Classroom?
The Confucius Classroom was jointly established by Puhua Trilingual School, Baoding University, and the Baoding Secondary School Education Group.
What methods are used to teach Chinese at Puhua Trilingual School?
Students learn through hands-on activities such as calligraphy, traditional music, paper-cutting, and Chinese chess to ensure the language is experienced rather than just memorized.
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