From November 16 to 22, the highly anticipated PK22 program took place. What’s PK? Program Kesehatan (Health Program)? Program Kesejahteraan (Welfare Program)? Nope! PK stands for Persiapan Keberangkatan (Pre-Departure Preparation). Previously known as the Leadership Program, the name has evolved over time while retaining the same core objectives. Organized by LPDP (Lembaga Pengelola Dana Pendidikan) of the Republic of Indonesia, PK is a mandatory follow-up program for LPDP Master's and Doctoral scholarship recipients after the administrative selection, interviews, and Leaderless Group Discussion (LGD).
The purpose of PK is to prepare awardees before they depart for their respective universities. The program covers sessions on scholarship regulations, leadership qualities, national pride, social contribution, and mental and physical preparation.
Personal Experience
Since August 25, 2014, I had been pursuing a Master’s degree in Urban Design at ITB. I was already accepted as an LPDP awardee after passing the selection process in July 2014. To attend PK22, I had to take a five-day academic leave. At the time, I was two months pregnant and planning my wedding with my husband, who had also been accepted to ITB's Master's program in Architecture Design.
Initially, I worried that my pregnancy might affect my performance during PK. To my surprise, the organizers and fellow participants were incredibly supportive. I was even excused from the outbound activities to minimize risks, which showed the program's respect for my condition. This was truly heartening—proving that women, despite their natural roles, are still supported by the government to pursue education and participate fully in professional development.
Challenges and Growth
One memorable challenge during PK was the live-tweeting task. Participants with the highest number of followers were expected to post 22 tweets per session daily. Social media was not my forte; I usually used Twitter only for reading news or casual chats. At first, this task seemed nearly impossible. However, with determination and help from friends, I managed to do it—a personal achievement that taught me the value of persistence.
Lessons Learned
PK22 was filled with valuable lessons and unforgettable experiences. The speakers, with their diverse backgrounds, offered fresh perspectives on life and professional growth. I was deeply inspired by their insights.
A special thanks to my incredible group, Ali Sastroamijoyo.
- Ramda: Thank you for reminding me about pre-PK assignments and for your amazing video projects.
- Agus: You kept our spirits high even during tough times, using a megaphone when your voice was nearly gone.
- Maduma: Your discipline kept us punctual and successful, even when we asked you to step forward multiple times during ice-breaking sessions.
- Mba Tika, Mba Indah, and Albert: Thanks for helping me with live-tweeting tasks.
- Mas Amos: Your dedication during outbound activities helped us win the paintball session.
- Mas Yutmen and Mas Darus: Your teamwork during Sharing and Inspiration Class motivated and inspired the students at SMA PGRI Depok.
- Mba Yuni and Mba Maryam: Thank you for sharing valuable advice on family life and pregnancy.
- Mas Antoni and Mba Yuki: Your ideas sparked new inspiration for my thesis.
- Fandi: Your dedication to pre-PK tasks, even staying up for days without sleep, motivated me to work harder.
- Mas Oni: Thank you for allowing me to assist with choreography and for engaging discussions during seminars that kept me awake.
- Mba Veni: Your positive words and daily check-ins kept my spirits up.
Special thanks to my roommates: Dr. Intan, who monitored my health daily, and Sarahi and Zuhra, my confidants during the program.
I initially expected to meet great people at PK22, but I found people who were beyond exceptional. Their kindness, determination, and experiences taught me so much.
Lastly, a big thank you to Mas Rofi, our evaluator, who took great care of me and my group throughout the program. Your support meant a lot.
PK22 was a life-changing experience that reinforced my belief in Indonesia's future. I am hopeful that each of us will contribute to building a better nation. Amin.
