By Mathias Hariyadi
INDONESIA – Alumni of the Capuchin-run Universitas Widya Dharma Pontianak (UWDP) have granted a college scholarship to a student from a remote border hamlet in West Kalimantan, Indonesia.
The initiative reflects a deepening culture of solidarity among graduates of the Catholic university.
The UWDP Alumni Association, known as IKA, awarded the scholarship in September 2025 to Sherly, a Business Management student, covering her fixed tuition fee (Uang Kuliah Tunggal or UKT).
The initiative began in August as part of IKA’s collective effort to help financially struggling students continue their education.
“This scholarship program is the second time we have provided support for UWDP students. We hope to continue this initiative in the future,” said IKA Chair Mr Tioyono in an interview with LiCAS News.
From Border Hamlet to University Hall
Sherly comes from Batang Lupar District in Kapuas Hulu Regency, a remote area along Indonesia’s border with Sarawak, Malaysia. Reaching Pontianak from her hometown requires a 15-hour bus ride followed by a 1.5-hour journey by motorbike.
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