Amid increasingly complex labour market competition and rapid change, university graduates are expected not only to excel academically but also to possess strong non-technical or soft skills. Research conducted by Harvard Business School and Kellogg School of Management, analysing more than 1,000 occupations and 70 million career transitions, confirms that individuals with strong soft skills are better able to adapt, earn higher incomes, and remain resilient in fast-changing environments.
In response to this challenge, Tanoto Foundation, an independent philanthropic organisation in education founded by Sukanto Tanoto and Tinah Bingei Tanoto in 1981, through the TELADAN Programme, supports the government’s efforts to strengthen non-technical skills and leadership development among Indonesia’s young generation.
The TELADAN Leadership Scholarship Programme (Transformasi Edukasi untuk Melahirkan Pemimpin Masa Depan) provides not only financial assistance but also structured soft skills and leadership development training.
On Wednesday, 14 January 2026, Tanoto Foundation officially inaugurated 176 new Tanoto Scholars (the designation for TELADAN scholarship recipients) from the 2026 cohort. These scholars come from ten Tanoto Foundation partner universities: Universitas Indonesia, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Universitas Brawijaya, Universitas Diponegoro, IPB University, Universitas Riau, Universitas Sumatra Utara, Universitas Hasanuddin, and Universitas Mulawarman.
The new Tanoto Scholars were selected from 9,283 applicants across the ten partner universities nationwide through a multi-stage selection process conducted between July and November 2025.
Over seven semesters, Tanoto Scholars are developed as future leaders of Indonesia with nine core characteristics: self-awareness, driven mindset, innovation, continuous learning, care for others, empowering others, grit, integrity, and an entrepreneurial spirit.
Jakarta’s Deputy Governor, Rano Karno, who delivered an inspirational talk at the inauguration ceremony, expressed his support for Tanoto Foundation’s efforts to create equal opportunities for society through education.
“This scholarship is a trust from someone who believes that education can change lives, and even alter the course of a nation. One day, when you stand at a pivotal moment in your life, in a meeting room, a classroom, in villages, in cities, or even on this very stage, remember this day, that you once received an opportunity greater than others. Therefore, be a role model through your values and the positive impact you bring to your surroundings,” said Deputy Governor Rano Karno.
“Good fortune is not inherited, it must be earned. Remember one important thing: this scholarship is not meant to be enjoyed alone, nor to live comfortably by oneself, but to open pathways for others. This is the true meaning of the TELADAN Programme, to be a light and create impact for many,” he added.
Tanoto Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Benny Lee, emphasised that the TELADAN Programme is part of Tanoto Foundation’s long-term commitment to preparing Indonesia’s future leaders who are not only academically capable but also strong in character.
“We believe that Indonesia’s future leaders must possess integrity, empathy, and the ability to create tangible impact for society,” said Benny.
He also encouraged Tanoto Scholars to make the most of this opportunity by contributing meaningfully to their communities through the spirit of pay it forward, by extending the benefits they receive to the wider society and communities.
“Out of thousands of applicants, you have been selected as Tanoto Scholars. However, this achievement should not lead to complacency. Instead, use this opportunity as a platform to continue learning and growing with humility, while creating impact for the wider community,” Benny added.
The TELADAN Programme is designed across three development phases over three and a half years: lead self (semesters two to four), lead others (semesters five to six), and professional preparation (semesters seven to eight). Through these stages, Tanoto Scholars gain a range of development opportunities, including community service, national networking with fellow Tanoto Scholars, internship experiences, global-level personal development, and career preparation.
Upon graduation, Tanoto Scholars become part of a cross-country alumni network, a leadership community committed to continuous learning, collaboration, and positive impact.
According to the TELADAN Programme Evaluation Report: Enhancing Leadership Capacity and Graduate Competitiveness in Indonesia, published in 2025, TELADAN alumni have a 27 per cent higher likelihood of securing employment and a 36 per cent greater probability of achieving higher income levels compared to students who did not participate in the programme.
The evaluation also found that the TELADAN Programme doubles alumni’s opportunities for upward social mobility. Some alumni have matched or even exceeded their parents’ income levels within just one year of work experience.
Employers also assessed TELADAN alumni as demonstrating strong adaptability, leadership capabilities, and communication skills.
