In July 2024, the Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK) was selected as the hosting partner for the Access Scholarship Program for the 2024-2026 period. The selection process, which took place from August to September 2024, involved screening applicants across Balikpapan. Ultimately, 40 students were chosen as scholarship recipients after an intensive selection process that included administrative screening and interviews. 

The English Access Scholarship Program (Access) is a prestigious scholarship initiative supported by the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta through its Regional English Language Office (RELO). This program is designed for selected students aged 13 to 20 from underprivileged families, offering them the opportunity to participate in English language courses, intensive programs, and other engaging activities. The ultimate goal of Access is to enhance students’ abilities, expanding their opportunities for further education, better employment prospects, and even the chance to compete for scholarships abroad, including those to the United States.

Access is a global program, operating in over 86 countries worldwide, and is funded by the U.S. Department of State. In Indonesia, the Indonesian International Education Foundation (IIEF) has been the designated National Provider for Access since 2016.

The opening ceremony of the Access program in Balikpapan took place on December 5, 2024, and was graced by distinguished guests, including Mrs. Ruth Goote, the Director of the U.S. Embassy’s Regional English Language Office (RELO), and Mrs. Chandri Negara, a representative from the Indonesian International Education Foundation (IIEF), who played a pivotal role in organizing the event.

The ceremony, held from afternoon until evening, began with a warm welcome from ITK leaders. Participants had the chance to tour the ITK campus, including visits to the classrooms, the Project-Based Learning (PBL) displays created by the students, and the language labs. These activities provided an overview of the facilities available for Access participants.

The ceremony kicked off with the singing of the Indonesian national anthem, followed by a traditional East Kalimantan dance performed by ITK’s cultural student organization (UKM Tari). The event was expertly led by MC Yohannes Novandi from the Actuarial Science program (JMTI), with the assistance of interpreter Mr. Misbahul Aslam.

The event was attended by the Rector of ITK, the Head of UPT Bahasa (Language Center), the Head of ITK’s Cooperation and International Office, English language lecturers, Access instructors, scholarship recipients, as well as the parents of the students.

The first speech of the ceremony was delivered by the Rector of ITK, who extended heartfelt congratulations to the students selected for the Access Scholarship. He also offered a warm welcome to Mrs. Ruth Goote, the RELO representative from the U.S. Embassy, and Mrs. Chandri Negara, the IIEF representative.

The ceremony was a significant moment for both the students and the program partners, marking the beginning of a transformative educational journey that would equip these young minds with the tools they need to succeed in the global arena. The Access program promises not only to enhance their English language skills but also to open doors to further opportunities in education, employment, and international scholarships.

This launch event was a testament to the collaboration between ITK, IIEF, and the U.S. Embassy, and it highlights the commitment to empowering students through education and providing them with the tools to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.