Degree programme for Indonesian maids

SINGAPORE: Her maid’s dream to pursue a degree was realised over a dinner conversation.

"My mother was talking to my maid one night, and found out she was well—educated," recounted Madam Samira Siddique, 32.

"After she found out, my mother came across a degree programme for Indonesian domestic workers, and signed up and paid for my maid’s fees."

Just a year into the job with Mdm Samira’s family, 29—year—old Ani Musripah is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in public administration at the Indonesian School at Siglap Road.

Classes conducted in Bahasa Indonesia are held from 10am to 4pm every Sunday, when most domestic workers are given their day off from work.

The Indonesian Embassy started the initiative in March to help broaden the horizons of its 85,000 citizens working as domestic workers here.

Mdm Samira welcomed the idea, saying she had no problems with Ms Ani balancing her work life with her studies.

The four—and—a—half year degree course covers topics such as public administration, communications, management and accounting. It is held in partnership with the Indonesian Open University and is taught by Indonesian professionals working here.

Supporting the students are some 70 student mentors — Indonesian undergraduates studying at local universities — who lend their expertise in tutorials and study groups.

So far, 125 maids are pursuing the degrees, which are recognised by the civil service as well as many private companies in Indonesia, said Mr Fahmi Aris Innayah, the First Secretary of Citizen Service and Consular Affairs at the Indonesian Embassy.

Another 500 also attend a variety of courses ranging from sewing to English language and computer classes.

According to one lecturer, Ms Adinda Presanti, though enthusiasm among her undergraduates is high, the biggest hurdle for them is juggling the long hours at work with their studies.

"They are keeping positive because they are determined to succeed," said Ms Adinda, 23, a Singapore permanent resident.

To qualify, applicants must complete their senior high school. Prices are affordable: Those who wish to apply need only pay a one—time fee of $170 to register, while students need pay only $112 for each semester.

Said Mr Fahmi: "Even if they have to leave Singapore because of contractual reasons, the students can continue their studies at the nearest Indonesian Open University affiliate."

Education courses for domestic or transient workers are not uncommon here. For instance, every Sunday, nearly 2,000 domestic workers make their way to the Mujahidah Learning Centre at the Mujahin Mosque in Stirling Road for hairdressing, sewing and English classes.

Non—profit group Aidha, a spin—off of a United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) Singapore project, also provides similar skills training courses for the migrant population here.

However, the Indonesian School degree programme is believed to be the first of its kind in this region. When contacted, the president of migrant worker advocacy group Transient Workers Count Too (TWC2), Mr John Gee, was impressed by the tie—up between the Indonesian Embassy and Indonesian Open University.

"A lot of people assume maids are not educated but it is really good to give them a chance to make a difference in their lives," said Mr Gee.

But the biggest challenge is balancing work and attending study groups, said communications undergraduate Kuswati, 30. "Luckily, my employers are supportive. Not only do they help pay for my fees, they even let me use their computer so I can finish and submit my projects". — TODAY