The Covid-19 pandemic has left a huge number of children orphaned. At this time, the condition of these children is very vulnerable and there is a pressing need for their protection and providing assistance for orphans is vital. Handling Task Force Covid-19 data shows, on July 20, 2021 in Indonesia as many as 11,045 children were orphaned by this pandemic. BPS data revealed that in 2021, in Indonesia, the school enrollment rate for women was higher than men in all age groups.

Founded by John Wood, U-Go aims to help ambitious and promising young women in low-income countries to pursue higher education by providing financial scholarships funded by individuals and corporations in high-income countries. Together, we will build the next “social ladder” that will empower more young women, and help create a far-reaching ripple effect spreading to their families and the wider communities. Beginning with 1,000 scholarships in 2022, we will empower the next generation of ambitious and promising young women in low[1]income countries, including Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Nepal, Pakistan and Vietnam, to pursue higher education and increase their earnings for themselves, their families, and their communities. The opportunity of an education can change the lives of young women, break the cycle of poverty for them and their families, as well as tackle the gender gap in low-income countries. Together, let’s “pick up those sledge hammers” and break a glass ceiling, inspiring words from the founder of U-Go, John Wood.

The U-Go program will open up opportunities for girls to pursue education to ensure a better future. The U-Go initiatives are working towards bridging the gender gap in education. INOTEK had assessed the areas most affected by Covid19 to ensure the U-Go program targets the right beneficiaries. The overall objective is that more motivated girls who are economically disadvantaged are provided financial assistance to pursue tertiary education.

Outcomes of the U-Go Program :

1. The girls will make a better life for themselves and their families

2. They will be more likely to earn an advanced degree/certificate

3. They will earn more money in formal employment or as entrepreneurs

4. Their economic independence will result in their investing in their family

5. They will have fewer and healthier children with better future opportunities

6. They will have a higher status in their families and communities, and

7. They will work in jobs that benefit their society, as nurses, doctors, teachers, white collar professionals, etc

In 2023, the U-Go scholarship is expected to deliver 120 scholarships for young girls in Indonesia. The registration is open starting May and will be closed on 15th June 2023.