Balikpapan – Students of the Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK) have once again achieved a remarkable accomplishment. The ITK Music Student Club (UKM Musik ITK) secured 3rd Place in the University Student Band Festival Competition as part of the Creative Social Communication (Komsos Kreatif) Program of Kodam VI/Mulawarman 2026, held at the Kodam VI/Mulawarman Hall on May 2–3, 2026.

The competition, which brought together student bands from various universities, served as a platform for participants to showcase their creativity, musical talent, and collaborative spirit through the arts. This achievement demonstrates that ITK students not only excel in academics and technology but are also capable of attaining outstanding achievements in the field of arts.

Led by Afriel Kadang (Logistics Engineering, Class of 2024), the team consisted of six members from different study programs: Ryan Myguel (Mechanical Engineering), Jayosua Halomoan Silaban (Marine Engineering), Meisyifa Caesariasari Sabowo (Food Technology), Muhammad Ibrahim (Food Technology), Arnold Khendrick Samuel Wahyudi (Chemical Engineering), and Valentino (Mechanical Engineering). Through strong teamwork and dedication, the group successfully earned the title of 3rd Place Winner.

Behind this achievement was a disciplined and consistent preparation process. During the week leading up to the competition, the team conducted intensive rehearsals every evening at the ITK Music Club Room. Prior to the event, they also held a full dress rehearsal at a music studio to refine their performance and strengthen their chemistry as a band.

Afriel stated that participating in this competition was part of the club's effort to enhance the achievements of ITK Music Student Club while gaining broader experience in a higher-level musical competition. According to him, success should not solely be measured by the final result, but also by the learning process, teamwork, and courage to continue growing.

"Winning and losing are common in competitions, but being able to give our very best is something far more extraordinary," said Afriel.

This achievement is expected to inspire ITK students to continuously develop their potential, both in academic and non-academic fields. The university is not only a place for acquiring knowledge but also a space where students can create, collaborate, and achieve excellence in various areas.

 The success of the ITK Music Student Club stands as proof that dedication, teamwork, and the courage to take on new challenges can lead to remarkable accomplishments while bringing pride and recognition to Institut Teknologi Kalimantan at the regional level.