Mr. Piet van der Slikke, CEO of IMCD, Mrs. Ardi Stoios-Braken, Deputy Head of Mission/Minister Plenipotentiary, from the Dutch Embassy, and Ms. Adelia Sia, Managing Director of IMCD Indonesia give educational support for YCAB Foundation’s students.While many other countries have an aging population and workforce, two-thirds of Indonesia’s population is actually in the productive age range (15–64 years). This large population of productive age can be an investment for a massive development in our nation’s future. However, to fully take advantage of this demographic bonus, Indonesia must invest in the younger generation, namely in the field of health, welfare, education, and other fields that will determine their ability as a generation, to unlock their full potential. (UNICEF, 2020)
Given the circumstances, YCAB Foundation together with PT IMCD Indonesia launched a collaboration named STEM4Youth which aims to empower the education of YCAB Foundation’s students. This program aims to inspire young students to explore STEM education through the sponsorship of high school education. The students will be able to connect their interests and skills with potential STEM careers and receive training on new skills and work readiness.
The first phase of the collaboration between PT IMCD Indonesia and YCAB Foundation will cover education costs for 25 YCAB Foundation students along with internet data, health kits, and basic needs supplies. Moreover, a STEM program will be implemented by building the teaching capacity of YCAB teachers. Throughout this phase, PT IMCD Indonesia’s employees will be invited to create interactive classes as a part of the volunteering session. To top off this program, a fully-funded university scholarship will be given to 1 eligible YCAB Foundation student.
The signing ceremony of the STEM4Youth Program was attended by Mr. Piet van der Slikke, CEO of IMCD, and Mrs. Ardi Stoios-Braken, Deputy Head of Mission/Minister Plenipotentiary, from the Dutch Embassy, and Ms. Adelia Sia, Managing Director of IMCD Indonesia.
Mrs. Ardi Stoios-Braken, Deputy Head of Mission/Minister Plenipotentiary, from the Dutch Embassy to witness the signing ceremony.“We are elated to be able to contribute to society and promote STEM education through our STEM4Youth program. YCAB Foundation and IMCD share a common belief, and I believe our collaboration would benefit the young students with more opportunities in the future,” said Ms. Adelia Sia, Managing Director of IMCD Indonesia.
This program will be distributed into two sectors for 4 years and will help underprivileged students of YCAB Foundation to aim for higher goals and achieve a better outcome in life for a better livelihood.
“As we are transitioning into Industrial Revolution 4.0, our students need to have the proper skills and qualifications before entering the world of work. We are delighted to be partnering with PT IMCD Indonesia. Through the STEM4Youth program, we hope that these students will be armed with knowledge, skills, and character traits that are critically important to thrive in today’s world.”, mentioned Veronica Colondam, Founder and CEO of YCAB Foundation.
