Taking the UTBK at IPB University, These Two Participants with Physical Disabilities Are Optimistic About Passing the SNBT

Two participants with physical disabilities, Muhammad Tegar Bimo Santoso from Jakarta and Kevin Christian Rihandi from Cileungsi, took the Computer Based Written Exam–National Test Based Selection  (UTBK-SNBT) at IPB University on Tuesday, (4/21), with great optimism. Both received full support from their respective parents as they faced this college entrance exam.

Muhammad Tegar Bimo Santoso, accompanied by his father, Mukmin, hopes to pass the exam so he can continue his studies at his dream university. For Mukmin, taking Bimo to continue his studies is not a first-time experience. Bimo’s older brother, M Ariek Dimas Santoso, is an IPB University alumnus from the Class of 50. Both brothers are known to have progressive muscular dystrophy (PMD), a genetic disorder that affects the body’s muscles.

Mukmin shared his positive memories of IPB University. For him, IPB University is very attentive to students with special needs. “Back then, Ariek was given an electric wheelchair by Mr Herry (IPB Rector from 2007–2017),” said Mukmin.

Despite having special needs, Bimo has graduated from a formal school in Jakarta and is recognized as an international IT champion for people with disabilities in South Korea. Bimo aspires to become an expert in digital marketing and wants to improve his Japanese language skills. Mukmin added that Bimo’s passion for learning stems purely from the child’s own awareness of the need to prepare for his future.

Unlike Bimo, Kevin Christian Rihandi has chosen Property Management as his desired program of study. Kevin, who has a similar disability, completed his schooling through an entrepreneurial homeschooling program. Kevin’s mother, Devi, hopes her son can enter the major of his choice because he is already enthusiastic and studies diligently every day. (dh) (IAAS/SSR)