Source: Pasca Untar

Learning does not always take place in a classroom. Sometimes, the most meaningful lessons come from engaging directly with the community—listening, sharing, and gaining a deeper understanding of social realities.

This spirit was reflected in a Community Service Program (Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat or PkM) organized by the Master of Management Study Program at Universitas Tarumanagara (MM Untar) on Sunday (27/07/2025) at Sekolah Bingkai Jalanan, an informal learning community that serves children from underprivileged neighborhoods in Senen, Central Jakarta.

As part of a collaborative initiative to apply academic knowledge in real-life settings while fostering social awareness, the program involved MM Untar students Elisha Sanjaya (117241016), Evelyne Alycia (117241018), Felita Yulianti (117241019), Lea Nia (117241024), Reyliane Oklayedwi C. (117241026), Fernando (117241030), and Edwin (117241046). The activity was supervised by Dr. Keni, S.E., M.M. and Dr. Alexander, S.E., M.M.

The program began with an introduction to the concept of the marketing mix through storytelling and interactive discussions designed to be easily understood by children. The session aimed to provide participants with a basic understanding of marketing that could help support their families’ small businesses. The children responded enthusiastically, actively asking and answering questions throughout the session.

The learning activities continued with a variety of educational games that encouraged teamwork and strengthened the children’s enthusiasm for learning. At the end of the program, the students distributed gifts, presented simple care packages, and shared dinner with the participants.

The MM Untar Study Program also donated new study desks and school supplies, including notebooks, crayons, and stationery, to support the children’s learning activities at Sekolah Bingkai Jalanan. “Activities like this are important in cultivating students’ social awareness. They not only learn theories but also put the values of humanity and leadership into practice,” said Dr. Keni.

The gathering truly embodied the theme Hope Grows Here, demonstrating that hope can flourish through simple acts of kindness. Despite coming from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, the children of Sekolah Bingkai Jalanan continue to demonstrate an unwavering passion for learning. Their determination serves as a reminder that Indonesia’s brighter future is growing steadily, one step at a time. “I learned so much from the children here. They are full of enthusiasm and never give up. This experience has given me a new perspective on the true meaning of success,” said Elisha Sanjaya, one of the participating MM Untar students.

For the MM Untar Study Program, the visit was not only about teaching but also about learning—learning empathy, understanding social realities, and recognizing the importance of being present for others. The program is expected to mark the beginning of broader and more sustainable collaborations while strengthening Untar’s commitment to nurturing compassionate and resilient future leaders. (Pasca Untar)