Students are encouraged to express social reality through Visual Journalism Competition

JAKARTA - Young generations have an important role in reflecting social and cultural dynamics in Indonesia. One way to channel creativity while building journalism capacity is through visual work competitions that challenge students to record the reality around them.

This year, the competition for visual journalistic works for students is a space for students throughout Indonesia, both those studying in and outside the country. tvOne presents the Karni Ilyas Award, the Indonesian Student Visual Journalism Competition.

Participants can participate individually or in groups, with works in the form of documentary films or in-depth coverage (factual) that showcase real community life. Fictional works are not included in this category, so that every story that is raised reflects the actual reality.

"We want this competition to be a platform for students to express their views on Indonesia today and the future," said Karni Ilyas, senior journalist and news anchor from the official statement quoted by VOI on Saturday, December 27, 2025.

"Through journalistic visualization, students can showcase the hard work, struggle, and hope of the community from their own perspective," he continued.

The main theme of this year's competition is "Re-reading Indonesia". This theme encourages participants to explore various aspects of people's lives, ranging from history, social development, to current challenges and dreams for the future.

The sub-themes that can be explained include activism and social change, environment, social justice, mental health, self-identity, culture, technology, and the creative industry.

The works of the participants will be judged by a jury consisting of senior journalists, Citra Cup-winning actors, musicians, film producers, and independent film activists. The finalists and winners will have the opportunity to have their works screened exclusively, providing an award and inspiration for the wider community.

"This competition is not just about winning or losing. More than that, it's about cultivating a critical and creative journalistic spirit among students.

The works that come out of this competition are expected to awaken awareness, inspire, and enrich the world of journalism in Indonesia.

With competitions like this, students get the opportunity to not only learn journalistic techniques, but also train social sensitivity and the ability to tell real stories visually.

This momentum is an important step in cultivating a young generation that is creative, critical, and concerned about the reality around them.