MESA Organized MESPO 2026 as the Creative Platform for Samarinda School Students
Author: Raisha Azzahro
umkt.ac.id, Samarinda - The Muhammadiyah English Students Association (MESA) of Universitas Muhammadiyah Kalimantan Timur (UMKT) successfully hosted the MESA Poster Competition (MESPO) on Saturday, May 2, 2026. Carrying the theme “Using English in Education,” the event was held at the Co-Working Space in the General Sudirman Building.
The competition drew students from various high schools across Samarinda. The opening ceremony was attended by the Vice Dean of the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP) and the Head of the English Education Study Program.
Timed to coincide with National Education Day, MESPO serves as a creative platform for the younger generation to demonstrate the practical application of English through educational poster design. The highlight of the event was the “Walking Gallery,” where participants showcased their works before a panel of judges.
Andri Tria Raharja, Vice Dean of the Faculty, described the event as a meaningful way to reflect on educational values.
“Education is certainly not just about intellectual growth; it is also a vital platform for nurturing student creativity,” Andri stated. He expressed his hope that MESPO would become a routine in English Education’s annual agenda.
Khusnul Khatimah, Head of the English Education Study Program, emphasized the broader benefits for the participants, particularly in honing their presentation skills. She also touched upon the role of modern technology in education.
“In this era, intelligence is heavily aided by technology, especially AI. However, it is crucial to remember that the human element — the creativity in articulating original ideas — remains an essential and irreplaceable value,” she highlighted.
SMA Prestasi Samarinda emerged as the first-place winner. They were followed by SMAN 8 Samarinda in second place, and MAN 2 Samarinda in third.
MESPO 2026 reiterates UMKT’s intention to support youth talent development through innovative and creative education platforms.
Author: Raisha Azzahro
Translator: M. Rafly Raihandy
Photos: Tio Andika