UKDW Advances Inclusive Vocational Education at SLB Negeri Pembina
Universitas Kristen Duta Wacana (UKDW) has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing social challenges through its Inclusive Service-Learning program. On Friday, February 27, 2026, the university deployed students to SLB Negeri Pembina Yogyakarta, a public special education school, as a strategic partner in strengthening vocational education for students with disabilities.
The initiative is part of the university’s Tri Dharma of Higher Education — encompassing education, research, and community service — with this program specifically advancing its community engagement mission. UKDW’s Inclusive Service-Learning Program has been running since 2022 and has consistently partnered with inclusive education institutions across Yogyakarta.
Winta Tridhatu S., Ph.D., Coordinator of Inclusive Thematic Service-Learning #4, explained that UKDW initially worked primarily with elementary and junior secondary students. Since 2024, however, the team has expanded its collaboration with SLB Negeri Pembina through the Batik Umpluk art therapy project.
“We recognize the need for innovative learning approaches that better prepare students for life after graduation, particularly by strengthening their employability skills,” she said.
A total of 51 UKDW students were selected to participate in the program, working alongside 16 students from the university’s Inclusive Design Studio. Together, they will produce advocacy materials, including feature articles, documentary videos, instructional innovations, and initiatives aimed at enhancing students’ social and communication skills. Notably, 96 percent of the participating students have prior experience engaging with persons with disabilities, giving the university confidence that the collaboration will be both effective and sustainable.
Meanwhile, Nur Khasanah, M.Pd., Principal of SLB Negeri Pembina Yogyakarta, emphasized the importance of vocational training for students with intellectual disabilities.
“We want our students to be productive and capable of creating meaningful work. Our goal is to support them in becoming independent and able to sustain themselves,” she said.
She also encouraged the university students to maintain close communication with supervising teachers, noting that some students face challenges with verbal communication, literacy, or direct social interaction.
UKDW Rector Dr.-Ing. Wiyatiningsih added that the program builds on a partnership established last year. She encouraged students to remain patient and persistent in developing communication with learners.
“The challenges are real, but we are proud that our students are willing to engage and contribute innovative ideas. We learn from one another and remain committed to expanding inclusive spaces,” she said.
Through this Inclusive Thematic Service-Learning Program, UKDW aims not only to provide mentorship but also to contribute practical solutions to inclusive vocational education. The initiative enables students to develop empathy, innovation, and professional skills, while supporting learners in preparing for a more independent future.
W-ID: mpk | Ed. (ENG): drr
