Jakarta, July 13 -- Indonesia's deputy education minister urged students to join school councils to develop leadership and democratic values, while encouraging schools to strengthen reading habits through weekly library activities.

Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Atip Latipulhayat made the remarks during a visit to the first day of school orientation at State Junior High School 57 in Central Jakarta on Monday.

He said participation in student councils helps students adapt to school life while developing social interaction and decision-making skills.

"Student councils are a miniature of community life. Everyone must learn from an early age how to live and interact in society," Latipulhayat said.

He said student counc...