Bandung – A student from the Faculty of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (FTMD) at Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB), Kevancea Ikea Djunaedi, has successfully won a bronze medal at the 2025 Asian Physics Olympiad (APhO). This achievement stands as a proud milestone that showcases the capability of Indonesia’s younger generation to compete on an international stage.

Kevancea, a Mechanical Engineering student at FTMD ITB (Class of 2025), is a graduate of SMAK 1 Penabur Bandung. Prior to participating in APhO 2025, he achieved notable success by winning a gold medal at the 2024 National Science Olympiad (OSN) in the field of Physics.

His journey toward APhO 2025 began following his success at OSN. This achievement led to his selection for the National Training Program (Pelatnas) as part of the screening process for Indonesia’s APhO team. For approximately six months, Kevancea underwent a series of intensive training sessions and three stages of selection before ultimately being chosen to represent Indonesia in the continent-wide competition.

During the preparation period, Kevancea participated in various training sessions guided by experienced lecturers and educators. These activities took place almost every day, from morning until afternoon, focusing on deepening physics concepts and practicing the resolution of complex problems.

According to him, the one-year learning experience spent preparing for OSN provided a highly beneficial foundation for tackling the more difficult APhO material. He also admitted that the greatest challenge did not lie in the learning process itself, but rather in the ability to manage pressure during the competition.

“The greatest challenge was actually dealing with the pressure during the competition. Seeing excellent participants from various countries can sometimes make us feel insecure. Therefore, a strong mentality is crucial to maintaining focus and a stable mind,” he stated.

Participating in an international competition for the first time was a deeply memorable experience for Kevancea. In addition to competing, he had the opportunity to meet and hold discussions with participants from various countries who possessed extraordinary backgrounds and skills in physics.

For him, the chance to learn directly from some of the world’s best participants was an invaluable experience. He acknowledged gaining many new insights, both academically and in terms of problem-solving mindsets.

According to Kevancea, one of the most influential factors in the learning process is intent and perseverance. He believes that progress does not always have to come in giant leaps, but rather through a consistent and continuous learning process. For him, the experience of competing at an international level and the opportunity to learn from the world’s top participants were far more valuable lessons than the medal itself.

In closing, Kevancea shared a message for FTMD ITB students who wish to participate in international competitions. He encouraged students to be brave enough to start with small steps and to consistently develop themselves.

“You can start from small things and improve every day. A 1% improvement in a day makes you 37 times better in a year,” he advised.

The achievement earned by Kevancea demonstrates that hard work, consistency, and a willingness to keep learning can open up opportunities to compete at an international level. This success is expected to serve as an inspiration for FTMD ITB students to continue developing their potential and to boldly take on challenges in various global competitions.