JAKARTA: Indonesia’s President Joko Widodo (pix) presented an electric car to Rangas Vocational School in Mamuju, West Sulawesi, a day after he visited the school’s automotive engineering laboratory on Tuesday.
The management of the school received the environmentally-friendly car on Wednesday following their request when Widodo, better known as Jokowi, visited the school the previous day, according to the Presidential Secretariat’s Press, Media and Information Bureau.
During his visit, Jokowi watched students repair manual transmission cars and fit tyres at the school’s automotive engineering laboratory.
The bureau, in a statement on Friday, said the initiative highlighted the importance of education in adapting to changing times and establishing a solid foundation for innovative and sustainable vocational education.
“This electric car will enable the school to join other vocational schools in Indonesia to prepare for the era of sustainable transportation,” the bureau said.
Principal Mahmud expressed his gratitude for the assistance, saying although the school is equipped with learning equipment, it lacks modern vehicles and relies solely on manual cars.
Students Fadli and Adrian were enthusiastic about the car. Fadli, who was experiencing an electric car for the first time, felt joy and inspiration.
“This car will expand our understanding. Previously, we only had experience with manual cars,” Adrian said.
Another student, Arisa, thanked Jokowi.
“This car is invaluable to us. It will prepare us for the future where electric vehicles will be widely used.”
