Small Space in Bekasi Scavengers' Village, Where Children Nurture Their Dreams

In the midst of the scavengers’ settlement in RT 003/RW 008, Bintara Jaya Ward, West Bekasi, Bekasi City, stands a simple learning space that serves as hope for children from scavenger families and casual labourers.

The school is named TK Inspirasi Indonesia. Established in 2017, its building was initially just a simple wooden shack or bedeng amid residents’ homes. Now, although renovated to be more decent, the simple atmosphere still feels strong.

TK Inspirasi Indonesia was founded by Firda Budhiardjo (41). The school building belongs to her housemaid’s assistant in the area mostly inhabited by scavengers and casual workers.

There are no luxurious facilities. However, that small space is filled with the enthusiasm of children who come every day to learn.

Every day, dozens of students follow learning activities divided into two sessions, namely from 08:00 WIB to 09:30 WIB, followed by the second session from 09:30 WIB to 11:30 WIB.

In that limited time, the children are introduced to the basics of reading, writing, and counting. Although simple, this school still strives to provide education equivalent to paid kindergartens.

“Alhamdulillah, at TK Inspirasi Indonesia, the curriculum is the same as at paid schools,” said Firda.

Behind those learning activities, there is only one dedicated teacher accompanying the children, namely Lia Sri Mulyani (40). With all the limitations, she teaches dozens of students every day on her own.

“I used to get paid Rp2 million per month, then sometimes nothing at all. Now, every month I get Rp300,000,” she said.

Currently, Lia states that the number of active students at TK Inspirasi Indonesia is around 25 children. She admits that teaching children in that environment is not an easy matter.

“There are so many challenges. Because the children here are very active in movement and speaking. So we have to be patient,” said Lia.

As the only teacher, she has her own way of managing the class. Active children are placed closer to her so they can be directed more easily.