Implementing the "Gerbang" Program, Flag Ceremony at MTsN 7 Banyuwangi Conducted in English

BANYUWANGI – There was something unique about the routine Monday flag ceremony at MTsN 7 Banyuwangi on Monday, October 19, 2026. Breaking away from the usual tradition of using Indonesian, the entire sequence of the ceremony was conducted completely in English. The event, held at the madrasah's backyard, was attended by all teachers, education personnel (GTK), and the entire student body.

The ceremony officers, selected from the Madrasah Intra-School Student Organization (OSIM), delivered an impressive performance with their fluent foreign language skills. The solemnity and order of the event were further elevated by the musical accompaniment of the MTsN 7 Banyuwangi Corps of Drums (Korsik) team, who guided the ceremony flawlessly from start to finish.

This innovative ceremony serves as a direct application of the Gemar Berbahasa Asing (Gerbang)—or "Love for Foreign Languages"—program currently being promoted within the madrasah environment. Every designated officer, including the master of ceremonies, the flag raisers, and the ceremony inspector, was required to communicate in English.

Serving as the ceremony inspector, Aprilia Susanti, S.Pd., delivered an inspiring message to the students during her address. She emphasized that English is neither intimidating nor difficult to master.

"Learning English is not something difficult, as long as there is a strong desire within ourselves to constantly use and practice it in our daily lives," Aprilia stated during her English address.

The innovation and courage demonstrated by the OSIM officers and the Korsik team received high appreciation from the Principal of MTsN 7 Banyuwangi, Sri Endah Zulaikahtul Kharimah, S.Ag., M.Pd. She expressed immense pride in the successful implementation of the "Gerbang" program and voiced her hope that this initiative will boost the students' confidence in global communication.(Journalis )