Celebrating Ramadhan and National Children’s Day with Al Fauzain students

Australia’s Deputy Ambassador to Indonesia, Dr David Engel celebrated Ramadhan with students from an Islamic primary school in Jakarta today. The event, which also marks National Children’s Day, was held at the Al Fauzain Madrasah Ibtidaiyah in Kelurahan Pondok Pinang, Kebayoran Lama, Jakarta.

Sharing cultural and religious traditions was the theme for this “breaking the fast” event. Al Fauzain students taught the Deputy Ambassador and other Australian officials how to make traditional ketupat shells (a traditional Ramadan food), viewed a video of Ramadhan observance in Australia, and made Lebaran greeting cards before breaking their fast together.

As part of Australia’s Education Partnership program, Australia has provided A$10,000 in funding to this madrasah, and further support to develop and implement a “school improvement plan” that will ensure it is ready for accreditation.

“Australia’s funding of schools like Al Fauzain under our Education Partnership program with the Indonesian Government recognises the importance of madrasah in educating some of Indonesia’s poorest and most marginalised children,” said Deputy Ambassador, Dr David Engel.

Madrasah schools provide education to around 22 per cent of primary and junior secondary-aged children. While most teach the national curriculum, many remain unaccredited by the government, and so are unable to provide students with leaving certificates. Australia’s assistance is focussed on helping these schools meet national education standards so that they can gain accreditation, ensuring their students receive recognition for their studies.

“This school, like the other madrasah Australia supports, was selected because of its commitment to tolerance, pluralism and inclusivity, and to teaching the national curriculum. Today’s event is a great demonstration of that commitment,” Dr Engel said.

Australia’s $500 million Education Partnership will provide support to 1500 madrasah between 2011 and 2016. Australia will also help Indonesia to build or extend up to 2000 junior secondary state schools and support the creation of a national system of professional development for education personnel. This Partnership is aimed at helping Indonesia make progress towards its goal of nine years of quality schooling for every child.

Media inquiries:
Mia Salim, Public Affairs, AusAID Indonesia, 08121070237