Indonesia has always talked about holistic education, even embedded it in its national vision for education, but – like so many good ideas in Indonesia – implementation and execution have lagged.

Through national education, Indonesia aims to produce individuals/citizens who are “faithful to God Almighty, noble in character, strong, learned, skillful, creative, independent, democratic, and responsible”. Nice words, but unfortunately not well translated into the national education policy and strategy.

Holistic education must pay attention to the spiritual, intellectual, emotional, social, cultural, artistic, creative, and physical aspect as a whole. Thus, the output should be “a truly educated person”, where an individual is truly liberated and empowered for self-actualization, to do the best he can for the glory of God.

Holistic education must have a vision, adopt global best practices, professional management, encourage global synergy and international cooperation. Education must be centered on developing competency and potential. Parents and teachers must serve as role models.

DR. (Hon) Jonathan L. Parapak is the Rector of Universitas Pelita Harapan