Talekoi, a hidden gem in Barito Selatan Regency, Central Kalimantan. Despite being situated in the heart of beautiful nature, the youth in this village often face challenges in pursuing higher education. Limited educational facilities require them to seek opportunities far from their village to continue their studies at universities.
Students from Talekoi and Bundar village.
A ray of hope shines upon Talekoi Village. In the latest visit in April 2023, Youth Act Kalimantan, concerned about the future of the youth, provided guidance and direction on the importance of higher education and ways to obtain scholarships. As a result, five talented young individuals from the village decided to enroll in universities to further their education.
One of them is Ardi, an enthusiastic young man who has secured a scholarship at Palangka Raya University. Ardi possessed a strong determination to uplift Talekoi Village and inspire the children there to pursue higher education. "I will wholeheartedly dedicate myself to my studies. I want Talekoi Village to be recognized by outsiders. I want the youth here to be more interested in pursuing higher education. Let our customary lands not be taken away by corporations," said Ardi.
Apart from Ardi, four other young individuals also received the opportunity to obtain educational scholarships through the assistance of Youth Act Kalimantan. Sarasi Silvester Sinurat, the facilitator of Youth Act Kalimantan, spent the whole night to guide them in filling the forms, accessing websites and providing documents needed.
Ardi made a new friend during the exam at Palangkaraya University.
In the past few weeks, Ardi has visited Palangka Raya frequently for registering and taking test to enroll to the university. We supported him in any assistance he needed including driving him to the test location. After 4 hours, Ardi came out of the classroom with a broad smile. It’s a good sign, we hoped.
With this guidance, the youth of Talekoi Village have found a starting point of the path to achieve higher education and open the door to a brighter future. They are no longer trapped in the cycle of harsh labor in mining companies that bring negative impacts on the environment and local communities. Instead, they are ready to build knowledge and skills that will help them advance their village and drive positive change. That’s what we commit for, to strengthen grassroots movements and build a solid foundation for the well-being of indigenous communities by empowering its youth. (Sar)