In a rapidly evolving world, the importance of equipping young minds, especially girls, with the knowledge and skills to flourish cannot be overstated. Our partnership with UNICEF in Indonesia focuses on that.
Between 2021 and 2024, Umicore and UNICEF decided to take one of their projects to Indonesia where they focused on empowering adolescent girls through STEM and 21st-century skills education. Reaching thousands of students and educators particularly in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). This initiative aimed to reach the underserved communities of East Java, where access to quality education and digital skills was limited, especially for girls.
650 teachers, with a remarkable 57% of them being women, underwent comprehensive training in digital and 21st-century skills. These dedicated educators learned about digital ethics, the Internet of Things (IoT), project-based learning, and community problem-solving.
Nurturing Future Leaders
Among the students, 7,221 adolescents (62% of whom were girls) participated in intensive skills-building programs. They honed their abilities in problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration. The results were astounding: students developed 63 digital solutions, ranging from mobile apps to IoT devices, all aimed at addressing real-world challenges.
Amidst the sea of young innovators, two names stand out: Mayra and Donita. In the rural heart of East Java, these two bright students tackled an age-old problem: the high electricity bills at their school. They developed an IoT-based solution that not only reduced the costs but also won them the Best IoT Digital Design award. This achievement was more than just a victory; it was a turning point. The recognition and support they received inspired them to pursue higher education in technology.
Strategic partner
Building Bridgesships with the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce (KADIN Jatim) and Junior Chamber International (JCI) further enriched the students' experience. These collaborations provided bootcamps and community engagement opportunities, bridging the gap between education and employment. Students showcased their innovative solutions at annual Demo Days, gaining exposure to private sector partners and government agencies.Â
Reflecting on this journey, it becomes clear that the impact of supporting this types of initiatives extends far beyond the classroom. It is about breaking down barriers, nurturing dreams, and building a foundation for better opportunities for people in the communities.Â
