The story of the little hero Fauzi Ajitama
November 8, 2022, will forever be a day of sorrow for the residents of Playen, Gunungkidul, Indonesia. On that morning, a horrifying tragedy unfolded at the Muhammadiyah Bogor Elementary School.
The school’s roof suddenly collapsed, trapping 12 students who were studying the Quran inside the classroom. However, amidst the chaos and fear, one name will always be remembered as the little hero who sacrificed his life to save his friends: Fauzi Ajitama, a 12-year-old student.
At 7:30 AM local time, as classes were in session, the school roof, which should have been a safe haven, crumbled horrifically. No one could have predicted how swiftly circumstances could turn into a massive calamity. In an instant, 12 students, including Fauzi, were trapped beneath the terrifying rubble.
Despite being in an extremely perilous situation, the story of Fauzi’s courage and sacrifice quickly spread. He was found trying to shield his friends from the fallen debris, creating a path for them to escape. Fauzi didn’t hesitate to sacrifice himself for the safety of his friends.
Rescue teams arrived promptly at the scene and worked tirelessly to free those trapped. Fauzi, although in critical condition due to being trapped under the collapsed roof, received meticulous medical care. However, Fauzi’s condition deteriorated, and the decision was made to rush him to the Regional General Hospital (RSUD) in Wonosari.
Chairman of the Primary and Secondary Education Council (Majelis Pendidikan Dasar dan Menengah) in the DIY region, Achmad Muhammad, described Fauzi as a diligent and morally upright student. He was an exceptional student who, even in the most horrifying circumstances, prioritized the safety of his friends above all else.
Fauzi Ajitama has left this world, but his bravery will always be remembered by all who knew him. He was a little hero who embodied the spirit of sacrifice and inspiring courage. Despite his young age, Fauzi has imparted valuable lessons to us all about the true meaning of friendship, sacrifice, and bravery.
On November 9, Fauzi Ajitama’s remains were returned to his eternal resting place. Accompanied by hundreds of mourners, Fauzi was laid to rest in the Grogol Village, Paliyan District, Gunungkidul. In his departure, Fauzi reunited with his father, who had left this world 40 days earlier.
The collapse of the Muhammadiyah Bogor Elementary School’s roof may have left deep sorrow for the family and community, but Fauzi Ajitama’s story will always inspire us to live with more Sacrifice, Courage, and Love for one another. Farewell, Fauzi, the little hero with a big heart.