In today’s fast-moving digital world, Indonesia is taking bold steps to ensure its education system keeps pace. As technology becomes an everyday part of life, more parents are focusing not just on trends in fashion or gadgets but also on their children’s future in the digital age.
Recognizing this shift, the Riady Foundation has launched a major initiative aimed at providing equal access to digital education for all Indonesian children. This effort, known as Smart IndonesianSTEM, is a national movement designed to improve students’ skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
The program is being rolled out in collaboration with five government ministries and more than 500 schools and educational institutions. It comes with a funding commitment of IDR 500 billion. The goal is to build strong foundations in artificial intelligence (AI) and STEM subjects for 10 million students across the country.
Dr. Stephanie Riady, Executive Director of the Riady Foundation, spoke about the goals behind the initiative. She said the program is a response to major gaps in access, quality, and educational resources—especially in remote areas and madrasas that are often overlooked.
“The Smart IndonesianSTEM is a collaborative movement created to address real challenges,” Dr. Stephanie said in the foundation’s official statement. “There is a clear gap in STEM education, particularly in regions that are underdeveloped or underserved. We aim to change how people view science and mathematics.”
Dr. Stephanie also emphasized the importance of making STEM subjects more accessible and appealing.
“Science doesn’t have to be complicated. Technology doesn’t have to be expensive. Mathematics doesn’t have to be frightening,” she said. “We want to make these subjects close, affordable, relevant, and enjoyable for every Indonesian child.”
The launch of Smart IndonesianSTEM marks a significant step toward preparing the next generation for the challenges and opportunities of the digital future. By promoting inclusive and engaging education, the Riady Foundation hopes to reshape how children in Indonesia learn and interact with technology.
