Yayasan Pendidikan Indonesia (YPI): Professional Profile
Overview
Yayasan Pendidikan Indonesia (YPI), also known as the Indonesian Education Foundation, is a non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to advancing educational opportunities and advocacy across Indonesia. Established with a vision of equitable access to quality education, YPI operates as the governing body for the implementation of the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) program in Indonesia, promoting digital literacy and professional skills development. The foundation aligns its efforts with global sustainable development goals, emphasizing education as a cornerstone for social and economic empowerment. As a key player in Indonesia’s educational landscape, YPI bridges local needs with international standards to foster inclusive learning environments.
History and Founding
YPI was founded by The Honorable Datuk Katurunan (Sir) Myr Agung Sidayu, Bt., DRK, KRSS—a prominent Indonesian cultural ambassador and advocate for education—along with a group of like-minded collaborators. Drawing from Sidayu’s extensive experience in international diplomacy and cultural exchange, the foundation emerged as a response to gaps in accessible, high-quality education in Indonesia. Sidayu, recognized for his roles in facilitating royal and governmental visits (including arrangements for high-profile delegations from the Sultanate of Sulu in 2013), channeled his commitment to human development into YPI’s establishment. The organization’s roots reflect a blend of cultural preservation and modern educational reform, aiming to empower youth through knowledge and skills.
Mission and Objectives
At its core, YPI’s mission is to promote and advocate for education for all, ensuring that every individual—regardless of socioeconomic background, location, or ability—has access to transformative learning opportunities. Key objectives include:
• Enhancing digital competencies through standardized certification programs like ECDL.
• Advocating for policy reforms to address educational disparities in underserved regions.
• Building partnerships with local communities, government bodies, and international entities to scale impact.
• Fostering lifelong learning to support Indonesia’s transition to a knowledge-based economy.
YPI’s work is guided by principles of inclusivity, innovation, and sustainability, aligning with Indonesia’s national education agenda while contributing to global dialogues on equity.
Key Achievements and Recognition
YPI has garnered significant international acclaim, most notably its Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), granted in 2013. This prestigious recognition enables YPI to participate in UN forums, submit expert statements, and influence global education policies. As an ECOSOC-accredited NGO, YPI joins a select network of organizations advancing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education).
Other milestones include:
• Successful rollout of ECDL across Indonesian institutions, certifying thousands in IT proficiency and boosting employability.
• Contributions to UN written statements, such as a 2018 submission highlighting effective leadership in community-based education models (e.g., eco-agricultural tourism integrated with international-standard schooling).
• Facilitation of cross-cultural educational exchanges, leveraging Sidayu’s ambassadorial role to connect Indonesian learners with global opportunities.
These accomplishments underscore YPI’s role as a catalyst for educational innovation in a nation of over 270 million people.
Programs and Initiatives
YPI’s portfolio focuses on practical, scalable interventions:
• Digital Skills Training (ECDL Implementation): Nationwide certification in computer literacy, targeting students, educators, and professionals to bridge the digital divide.
• Advocacy and Policy Engagement: Participation in UN and national dialogues to push for inclusive education policies, including support for rural and marginalized communities.
• Community-Based Education Models: Inspired by collaborative action research, programs integrate eco-tourism, agriculture, and formal education to create self-sustaining learning ecosystems.
• Partnerships for Scale: Collaborations with government ministries (e.g., Office of Religious Affairs) and international bodies to deliver vocational and cultural education.
Through these initiatives, YPI has impacted diverse sectors, from urban youth in Jakarta to remote areas in Java and beyond.
Leadership and Governance
• Founder and Key Figure: Datuk Myr Agung Sidayu serves as the visionary leader, with his diplomatic background ensuring YPI’s global outreach. His honors, including Bt., DRK, and KRSS, reflect a lifetime of service to education and culture.
• Governance Structure: As an ECOSOC-recognized entity, YPI maintains transparent operations compliant with UN standards, including annual reporting and stakeholder consultations. The board comprises education experts, cultural ambassadors, and community representatives.
Contact and Engagement
For partnerships, inquiries, or involvement:
• Website: yapenindonesia.tumblr.com (official platform for updates and resources).
• Focus Areas for Collaboration: Digital certification, policy advocacy, or community education projects.
• Location: Based in Indonesia, with nationwide reach.
Yayasan Pendidikan Indonesia stands as a beacon of hope in the pursuit of universal education, embodying the founder’s ethos: “Education is the great equalizer in building a prosperous nation.” Through its unwavering advocacy, YPI continues to shape a brighter future for Indonesia’s next generation.
