A total of 86 high schools participate in the National Geography Olympiad held by Faculty of Geography, Universitas Gadjah Mada. An Indonesian international school in Malaysia also participates in this event. The Olympiad which took place from February 5 to 6 was opened by the Dean of the Faculty of Geography, Prof. Suratman, M. Sc, Friday (4/2).
The Dean in his speech conveyed that people should master geography knowledge. This is very important in order to promote national development. According to Suratman, geography knowledge should be given at schools starting from elementary school to middle level, either in natural science or social science. It is one of the medium that can be used to instill the love for the country and shape the character of the nation. "Thus, it is important to provide geography knowledge as early as possible," he explained.
Suratman added that UGM Faculty of Geography as the only one Faculty of Geography in Indonesia, together with the Geography Association of Indonesia (IGI) are currently encouraging the establishment of the Faculty of Geography at several universities in Indonesia.