Bahder Djohan


Bahder Djohan was an Indonesian politician who served as the 6th Minister of Education and Culture of Indonesia. He served in the Natsir and Wilopo Cabinets.

Background

Bahder Djohan was the 5 10 children of Mohamad Rapal and Lisah. Bahder's father was a prosecutor. Bahder Djohan was styled Marah Besar when marrying Siti Zairi Yaman.

Education

Bahder initially attended a Malay school in Kampung Pondok, Padang. In 1910, he followed his father to Payakumbuh. In 1913, Bahder attended 1e Klasse Inlandsche School in Bukittinggi. There, he met Mohammad Hatta, later became his close friend. He only attended school in Bukittinggi for two years before moving to Hollands-Indische School in Padang. In 1917, Bahder completed his education in HIS and continued his education to Meer Uitgebreid Lager Onderwijs in the same city.
In 1919, Bahder attended STOVIA in Batavia for 8 years, and lived in a dormitory located in the faculty complex. In November 12, 1927, he graduated from STOVIA and received his medical degree.

Career

In his youth, Bahder was one of Jong Sumatranen Bond's leader. He was actively involved in Youth Pledge. In the First Youth Pledge, Bahder delivered a speech about women's position. His speech "Di Tangan Wanita was banned by Dutch colonial government.
In the Independence era, Bahder was elected Minister of Education and Culture in Natsir and Wilopo Cabinet. In 1953, he was appointed President of Central Hospital of Jakarta. Then, he was elected Rector of University of Indonesia, however in 1958, before his term of office ended, Bahder resigned following his disagreement with Indonesian government suppressing Revolutionary Government of the Republic of Indonesia by means of war.

Scouting

In September 1951 thirteen of the stronger Scouting organizations met and decided to found a federating body to satisfy national and international needs. Ikatan Pandu Indonesia - Ipindo for short - came into being. Tuan Soemardjo was elected chief commissioner, and Dr. Djohan, an old Scout, became honorary President.

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