Celebrating Kartini Day 2026: Girls creating their future

On 21 April 2026, the BRIDGE Program held its first-ever Kartini Day celebration at SMAN 17 Makassar, one of the BRIDGE GEDSI Model Schools, bringing together 100 students and 300 teachers from six BRIDGE partner senior secondary schools and madrasahs across Makassar under the theme "Girls Creating Their Future." 

https://youtu.be/jGhfoNLTAIo

Officially opened by the Australian Consul-General in Makassar, Todd Diaz, together with the Head of the Makassar Education Office in South Sulawesi, the event reflected the strong partnership between Australia and Indonesia in promoting quality, inclusive education.

Inspired by the legacy of R.A. Kartini, the celebration encouraged students particularly young women, to pursue their aspirations, embrace leadership, and become active contributors to more inclusive schools and communities. A student performance honouring the women warriors of South Sulawesi set the tone for the day, celebrating courage, resilience and leadership as values that continue to inspire future generations.

Throughout the event, students explored how Kartini's vision for equal access to education remains relevant today through a series of interactive learning sessions. A panel discussion led by the Makassar GEDSI Alumni Network encouraged students to reflect on the importance of Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) in creating safe, inclusive and equitable learning environments.

Students also heard from representatives of Sultan Hasanuddin University, parents and accomplished women leaders from government, business and technology, who shared practical insights into higher education, future careers and the importance of perseverance, confidence and lifelong learning. An interactive career pathways session provided opportunities for students to engage directly with the speakers and explore how education can help them achieve their aspirations.

As the first Kartini Day celebration organised by the BRIDGE Program, the event demonstrated how school partnerships can foster leadership, global competence and inclusive values among young people. By connecting Kartini's enduring vision with contemporary educational opportunities and the principles of GEDSI, the celebration empowered students to recognise their potential to lead positive change in their schools and communities.

Reflecting on the occasion, Australian Consul-General in Makassar Todd Diaz highlighted the enduring significance of Kartini's legacy, noting that Australia is proud to support initiatives such as BRIDGE that empower young people and strengthen gender equality and inclusive education through collaboration between Indonesian and Australian schools.

“R.A. Kartini is one of Indonesia's national heroes whose story I have admired since I was a student. It is a privilege to celebrate her legacy alongside so many inspiring young people today. Kartini believed that every girl should have access to education and the opportunity to realise her full potential. Looking around this room, I am proud to see how far Indonesia has come, with young women pursuing higher education, building successful careers and making valuable contributions to their communities. Her vision continues to inspire new generations, and Australia is proud to support initiatives like the BRIDGE Program, which empowers young people to become confident, inclusive and globally minded leaders while advancing gender equality through education and strong partnerships between Indonesian and Australian schools." — Todd Diazz