Indonesia: providing access to education
The educational challenge in Semarang
In Indonesia, many poor families face a difficult choice: send their children to school or have them work to support the family. This problem came to the attention of the Collibri Foundation in the early 2000s.
As a socially responsible organisation, the group decided to explore educational needs in Semarang. Education proved to be the best lever to help young people grow and also develop the region sustainably.
In 2003, the Collibri for Education Programme started out by focusing on this educational need. Collaborating with YKAI, the programme offers educational projects ranging from primary school to university. These help young people develop their potential and give their region a boost.
YKAI’s commitment: provide sustainable educational opportunities
Since 2005, YKAI has been committed to the education and professional development of young people in Indonesia. We do this based on:
- Scholarships to encourage education:
- Every year, 165 young people aged 15 to 18 receive scholarships for two secondary schools in Semarang. We also collaborate with a third school in vocational education where young people learn how to use sustainable agricultural methods.
- Since 2006, this has been extended to the university level. Each year, four students from these partner schools are given the opportunity to pursue a university education with an emphasis on learning English.
- Every year, 165 young people aged 15 to 18 receive scholarships for two secondary schools in Semarang. We also collaborate with a third school in vocational education where young people learn how to use sustainable agricultural methods.
- Additional investments:
- Collibri Foundation regularly invests in these partner schools to improve learning conditions. The pedagogical approach and infrastructure are aligned with the needs of the students as much as possible. For example, SMK Seabudhi school received a computer room and the innovations in the sustainable agriculture programme of SMK SPP Kanisius Ambarawa received the necessary support. Collibri Foundation also invested in a shop within this school to sell agricultural products. Its proceeds fund additional scholarships that help more students to continue their education.
- Collibri Foundation regularly invests in these partner schools to improve learning conditions. The pedagogical approach and infrastructure are aligned with the needs of the students as much as possible. For example, SMK Seabudhi school received a computer room and the innovations in the sustainable agriculture programme of SMK SPP Kanisius Ambarawa received the necessary support. Collibri Foundation also invested in a shop within this school to sell agricultural products. Its proceeds fund additional scholarships that help more students to continue their education.
- A first inspiring work experience:
- After graduating, students can participate in a four-week internship at Colruyt Group’s headquarters in Belgium. It is a professional experience that provides cultural and personal enrichment.
The results: education and labour market preparation
In the short term, the programme helps students earn a degree, improve their English, understand the job market and develop necessary skills.
In the long term, the programme offers graduates access to better employment opportunities and higher incomes. This will significantly improve their living conditions and for those in the surrounding area.
