Karachi, The Knowledge Summit of UNESCO Youth as Researchers and Tanoto Student Research Awards (YAR-TSRA) successfully concluded in Jakarta, bringing together over a hundred students from diverse backgrounds and six partner universities across Indonesia. The event, held on November 14, 2023, at the historical Pos Bloc, marked a significant step in youth engagement in research and policymaking for sustainable futures.
According to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, the summit was the culmination of a 12-week program of online training, mentoring, and localized workshops. These sessions were designed to empower students to develop innovative solutions to socioeconomic challenges. The initiative aligns with UNESCO and the Tanoto Foundation’s vision of equipping youth with critical thinking skills and knowledge management through research, inspiring public policy, and development solutions.
Undral Ganbaatar, Programme Specialist and Head of the Social and Human Sciences unit at UNESCO Jakarta, emphasized the importance of this collaborative effort. The Knowledge Summit featured an exhibition space where participants showcased their research products, fostering exchange between youths, experts, and policymakers.
Karisma Nurul Izzah Suharyono, a student in International Relations from Hasanuddin University, shared her experience in researching women’s representation in politics in North Luwu, South Sulawesi. The project involved field data collection and analysis with guidance from experts, leading to policy recommendations.
A panel discussion included notable figures like Ir. Suharti, General Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Culture of Indonesia, Maki Katsuno-Hayashikawa, Director of UNESCO Jakarta Office, Inge Kusuma, Country Head of Tanoto Foundation, and Chelsea Islan, a youth and SDG activist. The discussion inspired participants to become agents of change, emphasizing the use of credible research, data analysis, and digital tools for inclusive, resilient, and creative community development.
Michael Susanto, Head of Leadership Development and Scholarship at the Tanoto Foundation, highlighted the multistakeholder approach required to tackle community challenges and the crucial role of young people in development.
Muhammad Filzah Zulfaqar, a student in Urban and Regional Planning from Brawijaya University, spoke about the diverse perspectives within his team that helped develop solutions for education issues in a socially isolated scavenger community.
The summit concluded with a networking dinner and cultural program, attended by various governmental and non-governmental partners, celebrating the participants’ achievements and exploring future collaborations.