Sokola Tengger

Indonesia, 2021

Sokola Tengger is part of the Sokola Institute, which focuses on indigenous peoples’ education and advocacy in Indonesia. In Ranupani, Sokola Tengger concentrates on education and community service (Tengger People in Ranupani). We provide three levels of literacy instruction: basic literacy, advanced literacy, and applied literacy. Sokola Tengger is a culturally relevant educational program aimed at improving the literacy and advocacy abilities of Tengger Indigenous children and youth living in the BTS National Park. Basic literacy, applied literacy, organizing/cadre, and advocacy are all stages of Sokola Tengger. Basic literacy in Sokola Tengger consists of learning to read, write, and count in the context of Ranupani, such as learning to read and write using local dialect and counting the potato crop on their field. Applied literacy is the use of knowledge to solve difficulties in everyday life at Ranupani, such as learning about fertilizer application from guest teachers, cultural classes, and English for tourism. Sokola Tengger in Ranupani has recently completed the Applied Literacy stage.

Contextual literacy encompasses not just what is learned, but also when and where it is learned. Teenagers are welcome to come in their spare time after completing their chores to assist parents in the fields. Learning can take place anywhere, such as in their potato fields, on the lake where they play, or at their home. Sokola Tengger attempts to fill the hole left by youngsters’ lack of contextualization in traditional schooling.

Empowering the Tengger Indigenous Community Through Contextual Literacy

In the heart of East Java, nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of Tengger National Park, lies a community with a story that needs to be told. This is the story of Sokola Tengger, a project that has been quietly revolutionizing education for the indigenous Tengger people in Ranupani. It’s a tale of resilience, cultural preservation, and the transformative power of contextual literacy.

Bridging the Literacy Gap

Sokola Tengger is part of the larger Sokola Institute, an organization dedicated to indigenous education and advocacy across Indonesia. In Ranupani, the mission is clear: to provide culturally relevant education that empowers the Tengger Indigenous children and youth. The project offers three levels of literacy instruction—basic, advanced, and applied—tailored to the unique needs and context of the community.

In a region where traditional schooling often falls short, Sokola Tengger steps in to fill the gap. Basic literacy involves learning to read, write, and count using the local dialect and practical examples like counting potato crops. Applied literacy takes it a step further, teaching skills such as fertilizer application, cultural classes, and even English for tourism. The goal is to equip the youth with the tools they need to navigate their world effectively.

A Community-Centric Approach

What sets Sokola Tengger apart is its commitment to contextual learning. Education here isn’t confined to classrooms; it happens in potato fields, by the lake, or at home. Teenagers join classes in their spare time, after helping their parents in the fields. This flexibility ensures that learning is woven into the fabric of daily life, making it more relevant and impactful.

The Sokola Institute’s syllabic method, known as Silabel, has been instrumental in this approach. It allows educators to work closely with the community, understanding their needs and co-creating solutions. This collaborative spirit has been a cornerstone of Sokola Tengger’s success.

Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Achievements

The journey hasn’t been without its challenges. East Java, particularly Ranupani, has historically struggled with high illiteracy rates. Many children drop out of school, and the community faces issues related to land, environment, and tourism. Yet, Sokola Tengger has persevered, thanks to the unwavering support of the Ranupani community.

The pandemic posed additional hurdles, but the community’s enthusiasm for learning never waned. The Sokola team adapted, continuing their work amidst the crisis. This resilience is a testament to the project’s impact and the community’s commitment to education.

Lessons Learned and Success Stories

Through their work, the Sokola Tengger team has learned invaluable lessons. They’ve discovered that the Ranupani people are incredibly intelligent, but opportunities for growth have been limited. Formal schooling isn’t the only path to lifelong learning; education can be a direct application of knowledge in daily life. It’s about understanding not just the text, but the context.

One of the most significant success stories is the ongoing operation of the Sokola Tengger program itself. It serves as a reminder that community education and mentoring require a deep understanding of the community’s unique needs. What works for one group may not work for another, and Sokola Tengger has embraced this philosophy wholeheartedly.

Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations

As Sokola Tengger looks to the future, their goals are ambitious yet grounded in their mission. They aim to improve access to contextual and community-focused education for the indigenous Tenggers. But their vision doesn’t stop there. They aspire to expand the Sokola methods to other areas in Indonesia, bringing the benefits of contextual literacy to more communities in need.

The support of YSEALI Seeds has been instrumental in this journey. It has provided the Sokola team with the resources and encouragement needed to continue their work. The dream of achieving educational fairness for all Indonesian children is within reach, thanks to this partnership.

A Call to Action for Youth Leaders

To the youth leaders reading this, Sokola Tengger’s story is a call to action. It’s a reminder that change begins with understanding and empathy. It’s about recognizing the unique challenges faced by communities and working collaboratively to create solutions. Sokola Tengger’s journey is proof that education can be a powerful tool for empowerment and social justice.

As you embark on your own leadership journeys, let Sokola Tengger inspire you. Whether you’re considering applying to YSEALI Seeds or starting your own project, remember that the impact of your work can ripple through communities, transforming lives and preserving cultures.

In the words of the Sokola Tengger team, “Understand the community itself if you want to perform community education and mentoring initiatives.” It’s a lesson that resonates far beyond the borders of Tengger National Park, echoing in the hearts of youth leaders around the world.

Join the Movement

Are you inspired by the transformative journey of Sokola Tengger? It's time to turn inspiration into action by becoming part of the change you wish to see. Apply for YSEALI Seeds for the Future 2025 and bring your vision of education and empowerment to life. Sokola Tengger has shown us how community-centric approaches can break down barriers and forge paths to impactful learning. Now, it's your chance to create similar stories of success and transformation in your own communities. YSEALI Seeds provides the resources, mentorship, and network to amplify your ideas, just as it has supported Sokola Tengger in their mission to empower the Tengger Indigenous community. By applying, you'll join a dynamic group of Southeast Asian leaders dedicated to creating positive change. Take the first step towards making a significant impact in education and social justice. Apply now and be the change your community needs: Apply for YSEALI Seeds 2025.