Aug 23, 2025 – Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing the way the world works. According to the World Economic Forum, more than 86% of companies will soon be directly impacted by AI and related technologies. This shift calls for a new generation of talent—young people who are not only technically skilled but also ready to use technology responsibly.

Recognizing this need, Prestasi Junior Indonesia (PJI), in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS), launched the STEM Capacity Building program in West Java. From January to August 2025, the program reached more than 5,100 students and 40 teachers from 40 high schools across the province, equipping them with essential AI and machine learning knowledge through workshops, training sessions, and competitions.

Learning by Doing: The AI Hackathon

The highlight of the program was the AI Hackathon, held in Bandung on August 23, 2025. A total of 246 students from 31 schools formed 52 teams, each tasked with designing AI-powered solutions for education.

With the theme “AI for Education”, the hackathon challenged students to think critically about how AI could support teachers, improve school management, create more engaging learning, and open access to education for underserved communities.

To prepare, semifinalist teams received direct mentorship from AWS experts through three online sessions. They also had access to AWS tools like PartyRock and Amazon Bedrock, which enabled them to turn concepts into prototypes ranging from personalized learning apps to accessibility tools for deaf and mute students.

Innovation and Winners

The competition produced an inspiring range of ideas. Six awards were presented:

– First Place: Team SoLearn – SMAN 2 Cibinong

– Second Place: Team JSC – SMKN 1 Cimahi

– Third Place: Team Stevia – SMAN 4 Depok

– Sustainability Innovation Award: Team Calvium – SMAN 1 Nagreg

– Most Creative Project Award: Team Sora – SMKN 11 Bandung

– Public Choice Award: Team Stevia – SMAN 4 Depok

The champion, Team SoLearn, impressed the judges with “Learn to Earn”, a web-based app that combines AI study support, gamification, and interactive lesson design. The solution not only motivates students but also helps teachers streamline their administrative work. The team now plans to expand the app using generative AI technology.

Reflecting on the experience, Restu Hidayat from SoLearn said:
“Through this program, I learned how to structure my ideas and gained confidence to present them. It’s been a truly valuable journey, and I’m thankful to PJI, AWS, and our mentors for the guidance.”

Teachers as AI Ambassadors

To ensure the program’s impact goes beyond one-off events, PJI and AWS also selected Teacher Ambassadors—educators who stood out during the program and will serve as AI champions in their schools. With continued support from PJI, these teachers will help expand AI literacy and integrate it into classrooms for years to come.

A Shared Commitment to the Future

Pribadi Setiyanto, Chairman of PJI’s Executive Board, highlighted the power of youth-driven innovation:
“The AI Hackathon shows that when students are encouraged to explore, they can produce fresh, meaningful ideas. Together with AWS, we are proud to nurture these talents and empower them to make an impact.”

The program also gained recognition from government leaders. Dedi Mulyadi, Head of West Java’s Regional Development Planning Agency (BAPPEDA), noted how the initiative supports the province’s West Java Istimewa vision, particularly in fostering innovation and human capital development.

Inspiring Responsible Innovators

The STEM Capacity Building program and AI Hackathon 2025 mark a milestone in PJI’s mission to strengthen digital literacy among Indonesian youth. By bringing together education, industry, and government, the initiative not only introduced AI as a technical skill but also encouraged students and teachers to see it as a tool for solving real challenges.

With programs like this, PJI continues to empower the next generation of responsible innovators—students and educators who will shape a brighter, more inclusive digital future.