Jakarta Deputy Governor, Rano Karno, opened Canisius Expo 2025 at Canisius College, Jalan Menteng Raya, Central Jakarta, Saturday (9/13).

Rano, who is commonly called Bang Doel, expressed pride in the Betawi cultural performance displayed by the students. The performance reflects how nationalism can be cultivated through culture.

"I honestly feel happy that the entire education world in Jakarta is inspired to elevate culture within the education itself," he expressed.

He asserted, culture is the foundation or roots in building a nation. He also appreciates students' performances that often showcase Indonesia's diversity through dances and traditional attire from various regions.

"Education is important, but if our souls are empty regarding the nation, that's quite dangerous. It means I am proud to see children performing in the styles of Madura, Betawi, Papua, Java, and Maluku. That's extraordinary," he explained.

He reminisces about his school days not far from Canisius College. This school is one of the most favorite in Jakarta.

Further, he also appreciates the school's consistency in instilling cultural values in its students.

"I never thought that this school would continue to foster culture among its students. Hopefully, other schools can follow suit, because this is the foundation of our nation's strength," he explained.

Canisius Collegw Director, Thomas Gunawan Wibowo expressed, Canisius Expo 2025 is an educational activity held through a cultural approach.

"Our efforts to develop the academic and spiritual depth of children who will later play a significant role for Indonesia are never separated from culture. Cultural education is essentially also heart education," he explained.

He added, this year, Canisius Expo highlighted the Betawi culture as a way to teach students to recognize their cultural roots in the environment where they pursue their education.

"Besides understanding the local culture where they are educated and develop, they also realize that culture is the root. And the root will determine what will happen in the future," he stated.