Our Program

Developing the People of Maluku Through Sustainable Education

We believe education is the key to building an intelligent, empowered, and civilized Maluku society because every child possesses extraordinary potential.

For more than a decade, we have continuously explored, observed, and engaged with communities in fieldwork, trying to understand what it takes to ensure effective and sustainable education programs. Through numerous iterations, we have formulated three core pillars that support each other and are tailored to each stage of a child’s development—from early childhood through elementary school, through adolescence and youth.

Our three pillars include:

  • Increasing access to early childhood education (PAUD)
  • Developing literacy programs in schools (elementary/junior high schools)
  • Implementing community-based projects (youth)

However, no program, no matter how good, will survive without the active participation of people that teach and mentor. Therefore, in each pillar, our focus is not only on the children, but also on improving the skills of teachers, educators, and parents, as the backbone of the education sector.

Literacy Programs in Schools

Literacy is our focus for elementary school-aged students as a foundation for lifelong learning and self-empowerment. For us, literacy is not just about reading skills but also about the desire to read, which is correlated to a thirst of learning in children. Unfortunately, statistics show that the reading interest rate in Maluku is very low, ranked in the first quartile (the lowest 25%) nationally.

To that end, we are focusing on developing library modules in elementary schools. Beyond providing books, we also collaborate with school administrators to plan and support library operations during the first year of running. This includes relevant training for all school staff, including principals, teachers, and, of course, librarians.

Early Childhood Education (ECE)

Research shows that children who participate in early childhood education programs for children aged 3-6 years have better cognitive and social-emotional development. However, rural areas in Maluku often lack access to quality early childhood education.

Teachers in Maluku are highly dedicated, but they are lacking in numbers and are often deprived of adequate teaching and learning resources. Therefore, our primary focus is empowering ECE teachers. We equip them with knowledge, innovative teaching methods, and skills relevant to the local context, enabling them to create dynamic, enjoyable, and effective learning spaces.

Our Program

1. Development of Lounno Early Childhood Education (PAUD) in Paperu Village, Saparua
2. Tiered Basic Early Childhood Education (PAUD) Training

Empowering Youth Through Community-Based Programs

Adolescence is a natural time for exploring the world and discovering one’s identity. Therefore, we see the importance of providing after-school activities that provide a positive space for Maluku youth to develop life skills.

We present this space in the Baileo Heka Leka concept. Baileo is a traditional Maluku communal house that symbolizes Maluku’s identity and cultural unity.

The Baileo program is flexible and varied. From digital literacy classes and foreign languages to sports activities, it provides opportunities for local youth to develop their potential, build character, and make a real contribution to the community.

Running Program

1. Baileo Heka Leka
2. Heka Leka Athletic Club