The International Student Festival (ISF) 2026 Was Successfully Held as an International Scientific Forum

Garis Merah – Lombok once again demonstrated its role not only as one of Indonesia’s most beautiful tourist destinations but also as a vibrant hub for innovation, collaboration, and academic excellence.

From July 4–6, 2026, the International Student Festival (ISF) 2026 was successfully held as an international scientific forum, bringing together high school students, university students, and young innovators from various countries to exchange ideas, showcase research, and build meaningful global collaborations. The event was organized through a collaboration between the International Student Festival (ISF), the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Muhammadiyah Mataram, and the Faculty of Agriculture, Nahdlatul Wathan University Mataram. Carrying the theme "Youth Innovation for Sustainable and Inclusive Global Transformation," ISF 2026 served as a platform for young people to present their research and innovative ideas, develop critical thinking skills, and collaborate in addressing today's global challenges.

Over the course of three days, finalists participated in a series of engaging academic and cultural activities, including scientific presentations, judging sessions, academic discussions, networking opportunities, and educational programs designed to enrich both their academic knowledge and cross-cultural understanding. The competition presentations were held at Nahdlatul Wathan University Mataram, while the opening and closing ceremonies took place on the university campus.

The competition created an inspiring and dynamic atmosphere as each team presented its research findings and innovative solutions before a panel of distinguished judges. Beyond the competition itself, participants received valuable academic feedback that encouraged further development of their research and ideas. The presence of participants from different countries enriched the event by fostering intercultural dialogue and strengthening international academic networks. In addition to the competition, ISF 2026 offered participants an unforgettable cultural experience through a field trip to some of Lombok's most iconic destinations, including Gili Trawangan, Kuta Mandalika Beach, Tanjung Aan Beach, Merese Hill, and local souvenir centers. More than just a recreational activity, the field trip introduced participants to Indonesia's natural beauty, cultural heritage, tourism potential, and creative economy while strengthening friendships and encouraging collaboration among young people from different countries.

Based on the judges' evaluation, the winners of the competition were announced as follows:

1st Place: Fransisca Gisella Ayu Rahmadani – State University of Malang

2nd Place: Raisa Nasha Aarifah – SMA Garuda Cendekia

3rd Place: Bagus Prayoga – Universitas Sebelas Maret

Meanwhile, the Honorable Mention Awards were presented to:

1st Honorable Mention: Syalwa Rizqi Syaqila – University of Muhammadiyah Palembang

2nd Honorable Mention: Adzkiya Al Nadiza – Universitas Lambung Mangkurat

3rd Honorable Mention: Mattias Rowen Panggabean – Triatma Mulya University

In addition to the main awards, several special recognitions were presented to participants who demonstrated exceptional performance in specific categories:

Best Presentation: Raisa Nasha Aarifah – SMA Garuda Cendekia

Best Paper: Keyshasi Cintanaya Sakti – Diponegoro University

Best Poster: Asiyah – MAN 2 Gresik

Favorite Paper: Fransisca Gisella Ayu Rahmadani – State University of Malang

The Most Favorite Poster: Syalwa Rizqi Syaqila – University of Muhammadiyah Palembang

The Favorite Poster Award for each subtheme was presented to:

Agriculture: Laura Angeline Olga H. – President University

Education: Janaka Ghani Prihadi – SMA Garuda Cendekia

Environment: Evangelia Auryn Fredella – Sriwijaya University

Food: Ria Prawirda – Dhyana Pura University

Health: Keyshasi Cintanaya Sakti – Diponegoro University

Law & Politics: Syalwa Rizqi Syaqila – University of Muhammadiyah Palembang

Social and Economics: Bagus Prayoga – Universitas Sebelas Maret

Technology: Putu Ananta Arya Dharmika – Ganesha University of Education

Tourism & Culture: Kautsar Ratu Bilqis – MAN 2 Mataram

At the peak of the event, SMA Garuda Cendekia was proudly awarded the prestigious title of Grand Champion of the International Student Festival (ISF) 2026, recognizing the outstanding quality, consistency, and excellence demonstrated throughout the competition.

The successful implementation of International Student Festival (ISF) 2026 reflects the power of collaboration among educational institutions, international participants, and academic communities in creating an inspiring and inclusive platform for young innovators. More than a competition, ISF has become a place where students from different countries learn from one another, exchange perspectives, build lifelong friendships, and establish international collaborations that extend beyond geographical boundaries.

The organizing committee extends its sincere appreciation to all participants, judges, supervisors, partner institutions, sponsors, and everyone who contributed to the success of International Student Festival (ISF) 2026. It is our hope that the ideas, friendships, and collaborations established during this event will continue to grow and inspire future innovations that benefit communities around the world. The International Student Festival (ISF) is more than an international competition—it is a global platform that unites young people through knowledge, innovation, and collaboration. From Lombok, Indonesia, the spirit of creativity and international partnership continues to grow, empowering the next generation to shape a more sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future for the world.