Sukabumi, July 2, 2025 - The spirit of the Ciletuh-Palabuhanratu UNESCO Global Geopark (CPUGGp) revalidation was palpable when UNESCO assessors, Bojan Rezun (Slovenia) and Zhang Chenggong (China), visited SMP Negeri 1 Surade, one of the schools actively involved in the geopark education program. This visit was one of the most warm and meaningful moments during the revalidation process.
All students, teachers, and alumni of SMPN 1 Surade were present and enthusiastically welcomed the assessors, along with their accompanying team from Padjadjaran University, the Education Office, and the Head of the Sukabumi Regency Tourism Office, Sendi Apriadi, S.STP., M.Si.
The students displayed various geopark-themed creative works, ranging from murals and posters to local art performances that emphasized the importance of preserving nature and recognizing the geological richness of their surroundings. The assessors were impressed by the students' enthusiasm and understanding of the geopark concept.
"School involvement like this is crucial. It proves that geoparks are not just the preserve of the government or scientists, but are nurtured in the hearts of children," said Zhang Chenggong.
Bojan Rezun added, "I've never seen such strong student involvement in the geopark process. Their enthusiasm is inspiring and strengthens the educational foundation of the CPUGGp."
The Head of the Tourism Office, Sendi Apriadi, emphasized that education is a crucial pillar in sustainable tourism development. He cited SMPN 1 Surade as a model for integrating education with geoparks.
"Geoparks come to life when the younger generation understands them. It is in this school that the values of conservation, culture, and local pride are instilled from an early age. These children are not just students, but future geopark ambassadors," said Sendi.
The involvement of alumni in this activity also demonstrates the strong sense of ownership of the geopark area among the community, as well as the success of the educational approach embedded in the CPUGGp ecosystem.
With its vibrant atmosphere, this visit confirmed that the CPUGGp is not just a physical area, but also a social ecosystem that lives and grows alongside its community—from school to the world stage.
Optimism in this revalidation process is not only interpreted as an effort to maintain UNESCO status, but also as a strategic approach to re-grounding perspectives on how to redefine a more sustainable ecosystem, while also actualizing community empowerment toward sustainable prosperity rooted in local values.

Author: Ilham M Saputra.