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<p><strong>Banjar, Kalimantan Selatan</strong> — On April 29, 2024, the 21st birthday celebration of <a href="https://spendapron.sch.id/"><strong>SMP NEGERI 2 PENGARON</strong></a> was not only a commemoration of a historical milestone but also an affirmation of its ongoing commitment to enhancing <strong>local educational quality</strong> rooted in the values of excellence and independence.</p>
<p>The climax of the 21st-anniversary celebration took place in the school's auditorium, attended by <strong>Husnul Khatimah, Expert Staff to the Governor of South Kalimantan for Social Affairs and Human Resources</strong>, representing <strong>Governor Sahbirin Noor</strong>. During her speech, she emphasized that SMP NEGERI 2 PENGARON is not just a symbol of educational progress but also a <em>role model</em> that must continue to be strengthened.</p>
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<p>“As SMP NEGERI 2 PENGARON enters its 21st year, it is hoped that the school will continue to strive for the advancement of education in South Kalimantan,” said Husnul Khatimah. “We need to build excellent, quality, and character-rich human resources, including graduates from SMP NEGERI 2 PENGARON.”</p>
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<h4><strong>Building Education Based on Local Potential</strong></h4>
<p>Since its inception in 2003, SMP NEGERI 2 PENGARON has evolved from an ordinary school into a recognized <strong>Driving School</strong> by the Ministry of Education and Culture. The school's primary focus is on transforming education from <em>‘knowledge courses’</em> to <em>‘life learning’</em>:</p>
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<li>Implementation of <em>Project-Based Learning (PjBL)</em></li>
<li>Strengthening digital literacy and entrepreneurship</li>
<li>Student involvement in community service programs</li>
<li>Development of curriculum based on local culture and environmental sustainability</li>
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<p>“This school is not just a place to study, but a laboratory of life where every student is invited to become an agent of change,” explained the Principal in his remarks.</p>
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<h4><strong>Achievements Resonating at Regional and National Levels</strong></h4>
<p>Over two decades, SMP NEGERI 2 PENGARON has produced numerous nationally recognized students:</p>
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<li>96% of graduates continue to state universities</li>
<li>12 students qualified for the <em>National Science Competition (KSN)</em> in various fields</li>
<li>Full scholarships from various national educational institutions</li>
<li>Winners of Provincial and National Level Student Innovation Competitions</li>
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<p>This success is no accident; it comes from a <strong>collaborative learning environment, dedicated teachers</strong>, and full support from the local government and community.</p>
<h4><strong>Future Vision: A Driving School Building the Nation</strong></h4>
<p>To realize its long-term vision, SMP NEGERI 2 PENGARON announced new strategies to be launched in 2025:</p>
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<li><strong>Future Achievers Program (SBM)</strong>: Training in leadership, entrepreneurship, and project management</li>
<li>Collaboration with local startups and SMEs for real-world work training</li>
<li>Establishing an <em>Environmentally Aware School</em> with student agricultural land</li>
<li>Development of <em>digital portfolios</em> as a standard for final student assessments</li>
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<p>“Education is not just about chasing grades but about creating individuals capable of meeting future challenges with skills, morals, and leadership,” added the principal.</p>
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<p>🌿 <em>“A small school from a village can spark significant progress. SMP NEGERI 2 PENGARON has proven that.”</em> — Expert Staff to the Governor of South Kalimantan, Husnul Khatimah</p>
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