To foster an early appreciation for local culture, SD Laboratorium UNG held a cultural visit titled “Meruang Budaya Desa Wisata Reksonegoro” on Saturday, October 18, 2025. The program took place at Reksonegoro Village, Tibawa District, Gorontalo Regency, and served as an engaging learning experience that combined education, culture, and hands-on exploration.
A Warm Welcome and a Taste of Tradition
The day began with a cheerful welcome as students arrived at the village. Following an opening ceremony and program introduction, representatives from Bank Indonesia delivered a brief educational session on the importance of financial literacy for children.
The first highlight of the day was a gastrotourism session featuring Nasi Bulu, one of Gorontalo’s traditional dishes. Students watched the entire process from preparing and seasoning the ingredients, wrapping them in bamboo, to the final cooking over fire experiencing firsthand how tradition and flavor blend in local cuisine.
Discovering Traditional Architecture and Performing Arts
After a break for ISOMA (Rest, Prayer, and Lunch), the students continued their journey by exploring the Jaton (Jawa Tondano) traditional house, a unique heritage building rich in historical and philosophical meaning. This exploration allowed them to see how traditional architecture reflects harmony between cultural values and daily life.
The group then visited Sanggar Esa Genang, where students were introduced to the Hadrah music and dance. Rather than being passive observers, they actively joined in playing traditional instruments and learning simple Hadrah movements making the learning process both joyful and interactive.
Learning by Doing: From Dodol to Reflection
The final segment featured another gastrotourism activity the hands on making and packaging of dodol, a traditional Gorontalo sweet. This activity helped students understand the value of creativity and effort in producing local goods that hold cultural and economic value.
Before concluding the visit, students participated in a reflection session, sharing their experiences and insights from the day’s activities.
A Collaboration that Revives Culture
Every part of the program was carefully designed to create meaningful interaction between the students and the local community. The villagers actively showcased their traditions and crafts, while students learned through authentic, collaborative, and enjoyable experiences.
“I am truly delighted with this cultural visit,” said the Principal of SD Laboratorium UNG.
“Activities like these provide invaluable experiences for our students not only broadening their knowledge but also deepening their understanding of regional culture, which is gradually fading from memory. Through direct interaction and appreciation, we hope our students will grow to love, preserve, and take pride in the rich heritage of Gorontalo.”
Through “Meruang Budaya Desa Wisata Reksonegoro,” SD Laboratorium UNG reaffirms its commitment to nurturing students who are not only globally minded but also grounded in the rich cultural wisdom of their homeland.
