Remember the faces of those who walked these halls. They are leaders and change-makers. We’re standing before Sekolah Kolese Kanisius. It is more than just a school. It is a Jakarta landmark. It is an institution with a rich history.
Sekolah Kolese Kanisius was founded on July 1, 1927. A Jesuit priest named Father Dr. J. Kurris SJ was its first director. The school’s name comes from Saint Petrus Canisius. He is the school’s patron saint. From the beginning, it was intended as an all-boys school. That remains true today.
The school has a motto. It is “Ad Maiorem Dei Gloriam.” This Latin phrase means “For the Greater Glory of God.” This reflects the school’s Catholic foundation. It guides its educational philosophy.
Sekolah Kolese Kanisius emphasizes what it calls 4C and 1L. These are Competence, Conscience, Compassion, Commitment, and Leadership. These principles shape the students. They encourage honesty and service to others. The school wants its students to live for and with others.
The early days of Sekolah Kolese Kanisius were challenging. Yet the school thrived. In 1931, Father A. van Hoof, SJ, became the first rector. Student activities began to blossom. These included a choir and drama club. A school magazine was also created.
During World War II, the school faced disruption. It was even used as a public high school for a time. However, Sekolah Kolese Kanisius reopened in 1946. It showed its support for Indonesia. The school flew the Indonesian flag.
In 1952, Sekolah Kolese Kanisius changed its educational focus. It opened junior and senior high divisions. For 15 years, its students achieved high scores on national exams. The school continued to evolve with the times.
Sekolah Kolese Kanisius is known for its strict rules. Cheating is not tolerated. Students caught cheating face serious consequences. In some cases, they may even be expelled.
The school also focuses on character building. It offers programs like jamborees and retreats. These events help students develop important life skills.
Sekolah Kolese Kanisius has many notable alumni. They include government ministers. There are also successful businessmen and artists among them. These alumni have made significant contributions to Indonesian society.
The school has a range of facilities. These include science labs and computer labs. There is also a library and sports hall. As a Catholic school, it has a chapel and a grotto dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
The Kapel Kanisius has been around since 1940. It has been renovated several times. The chapel holds masses in both Indonesian and English.
Extracurricular activities are an important part of life. Sekolah Kolese Kanisius offers many options. Students can participate in sports, arts, and academic clubs. These activities help students develop their talents.
The Perhimpunan Alumni Kolese Kanisius Jakarta or PAKKJ is the alumni association. It supports graduates through scholarships and job opportunities. It also organizes events to promote solidarity among alumni. The PAKKJ secretariat is located on the fifth floor of the main building.
Sekolah Kolese Kanisius continues to uphold its traditions. It prepares students to be future leaders. The school’s values and culture remain strong. They are rooted in its long history as a Jesuit institution.
Take a moment to appreciate the architecture. It blends history with the present. Think about the countless students who have passed through these gates. They have gone on to shape Indonesia. Their stories are woven into the very fabric of this place. Sekolah Kolese Kanisius is a symbol of education and character.