Empowering Youth to Lead Inclusive Care Innovations for Children with Special Needs
Jakarta – 14 October – This year marks BINUS University’s second collaboration with Singapore Polytechnic. Our initial partnership took place in 2021, during which nearly 60 students from both institutions participated in the second phase of the 2024 Specialists’ Community Action and Leadership Exchange program (TF SCALE). This program, funded by the Temasek Foundation, runs from September 30 to October 11 and focuses on the theme of inclusive care for children with special needs.
(Photo Credit: Mufti Warits)
The program’s first phase commenced in Singapore in the first quarter of 2024, while the second phase recently wrapped up in Jakarta, running from 30 September to 11 October. During this phase, they had the chance to collaborate with RAWINALA, the first education foundation based in Jakarta that has been dedicated to caring for children with multiple disabilities since 1973.
Their journey began with an immersive three-day observational visit to the foundation. During this time, they held in-depth discussions with stakeholders, including staff, teachers, alumni, and parents, to gain firsthand insights into the complex challenges faced by those caring for children with special needs. By identifying key issues, they collaborated in teams to design practical solutions, connecting their academic knowledge with real-life experiences and applying design thinking to tackle complex and systemic problems. 
(Photo Credit: Mufti Warits)
Laura Anandita, our very own BINUS University’s Biotechnology student, and Zarif Aniq Bin Mohamed Zaini, a Marine Engineering student from Singapore Polytechnic, reflecting on their experiences in this program, said, “Being part of this TF SCALE has opened my eyes to pressing social issues and how we can play a role in offering creative and innovative solutions building inclusive communities. But above all, I have made lasting friendships here.”
Through this exploratory journey, Laura, Zarif, and other students understood the emotional and social hurdles that these families and educators confront daily; therefore, both were excited to share the result of their work!
(Photo Credit: Mufti Warits)
One of the team developed a user-friendly mobile application that could recognize and respond to verbal commands, empowering children to express their needs and desires more independently. This forward-thinking approach not only addressed the specific needs of the RAWINALA community but also demonstrated how technology can bridge communication gaps and improve the quality of life for those with special needs.
“We are very happy that BINUS University brought your friends from Singapore Polytechnic to visit us, listen to our challenges, and support our actions. We are hopeful that this collaboration will continue with more future activities to strengthen our efforts in creating inclusive environments for children with multiple disabilities,” said Ms. Elsih Hastari, a representative from RAWINALA.
(Photo Credit: Mufti Warits)
This initiative aligns with BINUS University’s vision and mission to be a world-class institution that fosters and empowers society. Strengthening strategic partnerships with global institutions like Singapore Polytechnic allows us to lead the way in addressing social challenges through innovative solutions for empowering marginalized groups. By encouraging students to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges, we nurture compassionate future leaders who will drive positive transformation in the community.
(Words by: Mita Adhisti/Editor: Hamzah Ramadhan)