MAKASSAR – Access to English-language education remains a challenge for many children in various regions, especially in areas with limited learning resources and educational support. This situation prompted the South Sulawesi chapter of the Indonesian Britain Alumni Association (IABA) to introduce a collaborative, social-impact approach through a more inclusive and accessible education program.
The commitment was marked by the formal establishment and inauguration of IABA South Sulawesi, held at the Arsjad Rasjid Lecture Theater on Saturday (16 May). On this occasion, Abdullah Sanusi, Ph.D., who is also Director of Student Affairs at Hasanuddin University, was installed as Chair of IABA South Sulawesi.
The inauguration was conducted by Triono Junoasmono, Ph.D., Chairman of IABA Indonesia for 2025–2029 and Expert Staff to the Minister of Public Works for Inter-Agency Relations. The event also included the launch of the IABA for Impact social program and the book “IABA English for Impact: Empowering Children Through Accessible English Education.”
The program is designed to expand access to English learning through methods that are more practical, adaptive, and relevant to the needs of both children and teachers in various regions. Beyond language skills, the approach is also intended to build self-confidence and open up broader educational opportunities for young people.
The Chair of IABA South Sulawesi, Abdullah Sanusi, Ph.D., explained that education plays an important role in shaping people’s hopes and social mobility. For that reason, Abdullah said, access to learning must be opened as widely as possible, including for groups with limited educational facilities.
“At IABA South Sulawesi, we are running the IABA for Impact program to make a real contribution, especially so that children with limited access get the chance to dream,” said Abdullah.
Abdullah said the IABA English for Impact book was prepared as a learning medium that is more inclusive and easy to apply in teaching and learning. The program is also expected to become a space for collaboration among the alumni community, government, the private sector, and educational institutions.
“We want to deliver English education that is more inclusive and applicable for children and teachers in various regions. We also want to build a collaborative ecosystem and open pathways for cooperation with government, the private sector, and many other parties,” Abdullah explained.
From an educational perspective, foreign language proficiency is seen as relating not only to communication skills but also to access to global knowledge, technology, and international study and career opportunities. For that reason, strengthening English literacy from an early age is an important factor in human resource development.
Representing the Rector of Hasanuddin University, Prof. Ir. Sumbangan Baja, M.Phil., Ph.D., said the presence of IABA South Sulawesi can serve as a bridge for information and a way to strengthen academic networks for students who wish to pursue further study abroad.
Prof. Ir. Sumbangan Baja, M.Phil., Ph.D. also appreciated the Scholarship Talks and IELTS Preparation sessions in the event series, which were seen as offering a practical picture of preparing for further study and international scholarships.
Meanwhile, Triono Junoasmono, Ph.D., said the establishment of IABA South Sulawesi is part of an effort to expand the contribution of UK alumni in Indonesia through programs with a direct impact on society.
According to Triono Junoasmono, Ph.D., about 3,000 Indonesians graduate from UK education each year, with great potential to contribute to the development of education, health, and social progress.
“IABA was founded on 15 November 1990. We hope IABA South Sulawesi can become a leading chapter, both active as an organization and active in making real contributions to society. IABA’s motto is ‘Impact for the Nation,’” said Triono.(*/kmsh/fjr)
Editor: Ishaq Rahman
This article is an English translation of the original Indonesian report.