Three Deaf Students with Disabilities Take the UTBK-SNBT at IPB University, One of Whom Is a Math Olympiad Winner

The IPB University Vocational School campus served as the venue for the Test Based Written Exam-National Selection Based on Tests (UTBK-SNBT) for three deaf participants: Nashwa Noor Marlin Tadjuddah, Valentino Rasha Muharam, and Zikra Nadhifsyah. All three took the state university entrance exam with the full support of their parents, who accompanied them.

Nashwa’s mother, Nur Isiyana Wiyanti, traveled all the way from Southeast Sulawesi to support her daughter as she took the test at IPB University. The choice of IPB as the test location was based on an emotional connection both of her parents are IPB University alumni as well as the consideration of adequate facilities for students with special needs.

“IPB’s facilities are excellent, we had to choose a university that has implemented an approach that supports our children,” said Wiyanti. She added that the facilities at IPB University can provide a unique sense of motivation that has the potential to increase her child’s chances of passing.

Like her parents, Nashwa finalized her choice at IPB University with three programs of study: a Bachelor’s in Mathematics, a Bachelor’s in Artificial Intelligence, and a Diploma IV in Food Service and Nutrition Management (MIJMG). Although she has aspirations in the field of fisheries and enjoys playing with computers, she was steered toward Mathematics first given her achievement as a champion in the Online Math Olympiad.

Another participant, Valentino Rasha Muharam, was accompanied by his mother, Vivi Elvira. Valentino has an interest in painting and graphic design. Vivi Elvira prioritizes life experiences and perseverance for her son, encouraging him to participate in various competitions and contests.

“Actually, the main lesson is experience,” said Vivi, who hopes her son can get into a public university to help ease the family’s financial burden.

Meanwhile, Zikra Nadif Shah, a graduate of SMK 6 Jakarta, was accompanied by her mother, Yunelia. Yunelia adopted a parenting style that did not treat Zikra differently from other children, while still attending to her needs.

Her parents’ approach which was not overly strict and did not highlight differences kept Zikra motivated, and she proved capable of attending a mainstream school. (dh) (IAAS/PRO)