Jakarta, October 15, 2025 — After SMA Negeri 13 Jakarta successfully introduced the Practitioner Teaching Method earlier this year, SMA Negeri 39 Jakarta has followed suit, bringing real-world professionals into the classroom to enhance student learning.
The program, inspired by a similar initiative in universities, allows practitioners to teach students directly in their field of expertise. The aim is to help students develop practical skills and prepare for both higher education and the workforce.
Aris Setiawan, a national motivator and author of seven best-selling books, said the initiative reflects the need for schools to equip students with applicable knowledge.
“Some students have to work right after graduation. Schools must anticipate this by providing education that builds real competencies,” said Aris, an alumnus of IPB University.
At SMA Negeri 39 Jakarta, sociology teacher Fitri Rizkiyah coordinated the program by inviting professional journalist and photographer Angiola Harry to lead a workshop on photojournalism.
“We identified students interested in photography and provided them with direct learning from practitioners,” Fitri said on Wednesday (October 15).
Angiola, a journalist for Hops.ID and a correspondent for a Singaporean media outlet emphasized that storytelling through photography helps students think critically.
“Understanding the information behind a photo is crucial. The goal is not only to create beautiful pictures but also to tell truthful stories,” he explained.
According to Angiola, this was her second time teaching photojournalism this year after a similar session at SMA Negeri 13 in March. “The participants at both schools were photography enthusiasts, and many continued consulting with us even after the sessions,” he added.
Students expressed enthusiasm for the experience. Arya, an 11th grader, said photography helped him understand how to explore information visually.
Meanwhile, Azzam, a 10th grader and photography hobbyist, said he wanted to improve in panning, night photography, and natural lighting techniques.
