Mumbai, India — Indonesia’s night sky shines brighter than ever thanks to the outstanding achievements of its students at the International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA) 2025. Competing against 300 participants from 64 countries, the Indonesian team secured a total of five medals: one gold, one silver, and three bronze. This remarkable result proves the talent, perseverance, and global competitiveness of Indonesia’s young generation in the field of science.
The gold medal was won by Novin Raushan, a student from Kesatuan Bangsa High School in Yogyakarta, who delivered a stellar performance throughout the 11-day competition. Meanwhile, Jasper Rexx Putra Cakra from Kharisma Bangsa High School in South Tangerang claimed the silver medal. Three bronze medals went to Faiz Haydar Akmal (MAN Insan Cendekia Serpong), Joanna Stevia Chandrasaputra (Global Prestasi High School, Bekasi), and Adinda Ilmi Mubarokkah (MAN Insan Cendekia Pasuruan).
“Congratulations to our students for their achievements at IOAA India. This is an inspiration for students across Indonesia,” said Maria Veronica Irene Herdjiono, Head of the National Achievement Center (Puspresnas) at the Ministry of Education, on Friday (August 29, 2025). She emphasized that the success reflects the hard work of students, mentors, and all stakeholders who support the development of scientific talent in Indonesia.
The journey to victory was far from easy. The Indonesian team had to pass through five competition stages: theory, observation, data analysis, team competition, and a planetarium challenge. Intensive training was conducted by experts from the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), including Hakim L. Malasan and Ikbal Arifyanto. “The students performed exceptionally well. This result is truly remarkable and demonstrates their ability to compete at a global level,” said Ikbal.
Novin Raushan became the highlight of the team’s success. After winning only a bronze medal last year, he made a remarkable leap to gold this time. “I’m incredibly happy because all my hard work has finally paid off. The key to success is to pursue what you’re passionate about,” he said with enthusiasm. Novin has been fascinated by astronomy since childhood and remained dedicated to honing his skills.
Jasper, the silver medalist, expressed similar pride. “I’m very proud to win silver, especially knowing we competed against students from all over the world. Thank you to Puspresnas for facilitating the training,” he said.
First held in 2007, the IOAA is one of the most prestigious global science competitions, aiming to inspire interest in astronomy among young people and foster international collaboration in science education. This year’s competition took place in Mumbai, India, from August 11 to 21, 2025.
This achievement represents more than just medals — it symbolizes perseverance, hard work, and big dreams. These students have proven that with passion, commitment, and the right support, Indonesia’s youth can compete and shine brightly in the universe of global knowledge.
