Jakarta, INTI - Students from UPTD SMPN 3 Sinjai have demonstrated that technological innovation can emerge from any region by winning First Place in the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Competition under the Google Reference School Candidate (KSRG) category at the Gemini Holiday Camp.
Organized online by Google for Education in collaboration with Solusi Teknologi Insani, the nationwide competition attracted participants from across Indonesia. The Padaelo Squad secured the top position after outperforming 164 competing school teams.
AI-Powered Financial Literacy Solution
The team's success was driven by Hemat Quest, an AI-powered financial literacy application designed specifically for students. The platform combines artificial intelligence with gamification to make personal finance education more engaging, interactive, and accessible for young learners.
The Padaelo Squad consisted of team leader A. Citra Naqiyyah Salsabilla, members Andi Zulfan Zahir Marzuki, Asrullah, Muh. Faiz Ardiansyah, and Zalwa Nadisa, under the mentorship of teacher Yudi Arianto.
National Recognition for Regional Innovation
Mentor Yudi Arianto described the achievement as proof that geographical limitations do not prevent students from competing at the highest level.
According to Yudi, despite coming from a region with various challenges, the students demonstrated determination, innovation, and the ability to compete successfully against schools from across the country.
In recognition of their achievement, team representatives A. Citra Naqiyyah Salsabilla and Andi Zulfan Zahir Marzuki, accompanied by their mentor, are scheduled to visit Google Indonesia’s office in Jakarta in early August 2026.
During the visit, they have been invited to serve as speakers at the Indonesia Leader Series 2026, where they will present Hemat Quest to educators, technology professionals, and industry leaders.
The success of UPTD SMPN 3 Sinjai highlights the growing potential of regional schools to contribute meaningful AI innovations. It also demonstrates how combining technology, creativity, and quality education can empower students to compete and excel on the national stage.
Conclusion
The achievement of UPTD SMPN 3 Sinjai demonstrates that innovation and AI talent can thrive beyond major cities. By developing practical, AI-driven solutions, the students have showcased the potential of Indonesia’s young innovators to compete nationally and contribute to the country’s growing digital future.
Read more: UB Students Represent Indonesia in International AI Forum in Washington DC