The LBW Trust (Learning for a Better World) believes education is the pathway to a better future.
In 2023 a dedicated team of educators, including Dr. Nina Burridge, Dr. Miriam Faine, and Dr. Richard Walker, visited the refugee learning centers in Cisarua, Bogor, Indonesia. Their mission was clear: support the remarkable refugee-led schools that provide critical education to children and adults in an environment where resources and opportunities are often limited.
A Lifeline of Learning for Refugee Children
The refugee schools—Cisarua Refugee Learning Centre (CRLC), Hope Learning Centre (HLC), Refugee Learning Nest (RLN), Refugee Learning Centre (RLC), and the newly established Care of the Displaced Children (CDC)—play a crucial role in the lives of refugee families. Many of these families have been living in Indonesia for over a decade, awaiting resettlement. Despite the challenges, the resilience of both teachers and students is nothing short of inspiring.
One of the highlights of the visit was conducting teacher training workshops, which gathered 38 teachers from the various centers. These sessions aimed to equip volunteer teachers—many of whom have no formal teaching background—with tools to improve their skills and increase their confidence in the classroom.
The Critical Need for Resources
One of the major challenges faced by the learning centers is the lack of resources. While the dedication of the volunteer teachers is unwavering, their capacity to teach more effectively is hampered by a reliance on outdated textbooks and a shortage of basic equipment. The request for more creative teaching methods, especially in subjects like science, math, geography, and social studies, was a common theme throughout the visit. For instance, one school expressed the need for microscopes, while another requested scientific calculators and additional computers to facilitate learning.
Mentorship and Professional Development
In addition to resources, there is a strong desire for mentorship. Many teachers would benefit from direct access to subject-specific mentors, either in person or through online platforms. Padlet, an online discussion tool, was suggested as one possible way to connect teachers with mentors and share teaching resources.
Another key suggestion was establishing a writing group for teachers and students, aimed at fostering self-expression and enhancing English language skills. By linking the teachers with Kieren Kresevik Salazar, founder of the Archipelago online writers’ network in Indonesia, there is hope that such a group can help bridge the gap between creativity and education.
Wellbeing and Mental Health
The mental health and wellbeing of both teachers and students are significant concerns. Many students exhibit behavioral issues tied to emotional difficulties, highlighting the need for accessible counseling services. Teachers, too, face high levels of stress—both in the classroom and in their personal lives as refugees. The team noted the importance of stress management resources for teachers, along with mental health support for parents, which would strengthen the overall wellbeing of the community.
Next Steps: Building Support for Refugee Education
While the need for resources, professional development, and mental health support is pressing, the educators understand that progress must be gradual, given constraints of time and funding. However, there is a strong commitment to follow up on many of the requests made during the visit.
In the coming months, the team will work to provide more resources, explore options for mentorship, and continue fostering a learning environment that nurtures both the teachers and students of Cisarua. The refugee-led schools are not just providing education; they are offering hope, resilience, and a sense of community in an often uncertain world. Through collective effort, these schools can continue to serve as beacons of hope for those seeking a brighter future.
In Conclusion
The visit to the Cisarua Refugee Schools reinforced the immense value of education in displaced communities. With continued support, these schools will not only sustain but thrive, enabling young refugees to reach their full potential despite the hardships they face.
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Thank you,
The LBW Trust
