Every year on December 3rd, the world commemorates the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This day was established to enhance understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities.
The United Nations (UN) introduced the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in 1992 through General Assembly Resolution 47/3. One form of support for persons with disabilities is the fulfillment of their educational rights, a measure also undertaken by the Indonesian government.
Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education Agency (LPDP) under the Ministry of Finance plays a role in providing equitable access for persons with disabilities in Indonesia. As a government institution established to support human resource development through educational funding, LPDP specifically runs the Disability Scholarship Program for master's and doctoral degrees both domestically and internationally.
The Disability Scholarship, included in the Affirmative Scholarship group, was initially launched in 2018 with only one recipient. The number has consistently increased over the years, from 15 awardees in 2019, 25 in 2021, 39 in 2022, and a significant surge in 2023, with 199 awardees.
These 279 awardees are dispersed across various continents, including Europe, America, Australia, New Zealand, and Asia. This validates that having a disability does not limit dreams or the ability to pursue master's and doctoral education.
Realizing Disability-Friendly Education Access
Inclusivity is not solely about providing access but also creating supportive environments for everyone. LPDP's scholarship program accommodating and supporting students with disabilities reaffirms the commitment to establish an educational system that considers individual diversity.
LPDP caters to five groups of persons with disabilities for master's and doctoral scholarships: physical, intellectual, mental, sensory, and multiple disabilities. Certain eased requirements aim to ensure equitable registration competitiveness.
Some accommodating requirements for persons with disabilities include a Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 2.5 for master's and 3.0 for doctoral applications on a 4.0 scale. The age limit for applying as a person with disabilities is 42 years for master's and 47 years for doctoral programs, calculated as of December 31st.
Moreover, LPDP provides support for the expenses of assistants aiding persons with disabilities during their studies. For a more comprehensive understanding of the requirements and terms, individuals can visit the Disability Scholarship page on the official LPDP RI website.
The existence of the Disability Scholarship Program ensures that the benefits of #UangKita (Our Money) have been channeled and felt by at least 279 persons with disabilities pursuing higher education. LPDP hopes that in the coming years, more Indonesian citizens with disabilities will seize the opportunity of LPDP scholarships.
The Disability Scholarship aligns with the theme of #APBNKita (Our State Budget) in the upcoming year, which is "Supporting Inclusive and Sustainable Economic Transformation" to ensure equal movement for all elements. This ensures that persons with disabilities in Indonesia are not just subjects of development but also empowered actors in shaping that development.
Happy International Day of Persons with Disabilities!
