SDGs 4: Quality Education
Banda Neira has become a trending destination, drawing the attention from both local and international visitors. For Sherina, an Archaeology student at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, UGM, wo conducted her Community Service Program (KKN) on the island, Banda Neira is not just a tourist spot but a personal heaven. Belgica Fort, one of its popular icons, holds a special place in her heart. Sherina is fascinated by the fact that every arranged stone on the island holds a story and a mystery from the past waiting to be unraveled. Sherina said, “Many people do not know much about this fort, or they only know it from the backside of the one thousand rupiah banknote, without detailed explanations. What was the fort used for in the past? What were the functions of each room? What is the significance of its five sides? Was it for surveillance or other purposes?”
As an archaeology enthusiast, Sherina discovered various tangible and intangible remains in Banda Neira, particularly within the fort. She also engaged in discussions with the rector of Banda Neira University who shared their interest in historical remains. Interestingly, the historical remains spread across Banda Neira span various eras, as she mentioned, “Banda Neira is full of colonial remains, and as a person who is interested in colonial heritage, Banda Neira is like a heaven. However, the remains there are not limited to the colonial era as I visited a museum called ‘Rumah Budaya,’ where I found artefacts from the prehistoric era, such as thorns and fish bones.”
Sherina’s journey was beyond textbooks and classroom, delving into the secrets of history and the intricacies of Banda Neira. In the end, Sherina’s adventure in Banda Neira reflected the profound impact of hands-on experiences in fostering a deeper appreciation for history and cultural heritage. Through this writing, she invited fellow students to explore untouched territories and preserve the history embedded in our cultural heritage.
Photo 1: Banda Neira
