Motivating Young Survivors of Mount Sinabung Eruption

In Indonesia, Tanoto Foundation together with the recipients of its scholarship program visited the survivors of Mount Sinabung eruption in July 2015.

In addition to funds from Tanoto Foundation, the support included provision of clothing, food, and water. The following case study was based on a story written by Rico Dian Sahputra, Tanoto Scholar from Medan Institute of Technology.

“The sadness that the survivors of Mount Sinabung eruption feel is also felt by all of us. Because of that, members of Tanoto Scholars Association Medan tried to lessen the hardship of the survivors of the eruption, particularly that of the young ones.”

As survivors, they had to live in conditions that are far from normal. They often have to spend cold nights in temporary shelters. They also should be able to use the limited supply that they have wisely. More importantly, the education of the children in the area has been disrupted with no end in sight.

On July 15, 2015, Tanoto Foundation and Tanoto Scholars, visited these young children to help recover the children’s spirit. Through fun games, we also tried to make them overcome their difficulties, even for a little while. We were so happy to see that they took part in all the activities enthusiastically. During the time we were there, all their faces were filled with smiles and happiness. Through the games, we also tried to teach them some general knowledge that they found interesting. We distributed snacks, toys, text books and reading books so they could continue learning.

We hope the children realized that although their current condition is far from normal, there are people who care for them. We also hope that they eruption will end soon so these young people could go back to their villages and continue their education”.