Jakarta, March 20, 2025 – PT Asuransi Jiwa Manulife Indonesia (Manulife Indonesia) once again demonstrated its commitment to inclusive education by awarding scholarships worth IDR 305,750,000 to 25 students with disabilities from Universitas Terbuka (UT). The scholarship handover ceremony, held at Sampoerna Strategic Square Building, Jakarta, was attended by leaders from Manulife Indonesia and UT.
This event was a special moment that affirmed the ongoing collaboration between Manulife Indonesia and UT since 2022. In the first year of cooperation, Manulife provided scholarships to 20 hearing-impaired students at UT Jakarta. This year, the program was expanded to include students with disabilities at UT Jakarta, UT Bandung, UT Surabaya, and UT Medan.
On the same occasion, PT Asuransi Jiwa Manulife Indonesia proudly presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Universitas Terbuka in recognition of its contribution and commitment to supporting inclusive education and providing broad opportunities for students with disabilities. The certificate, signed by Lauren Sultisiawati, Chief Executive of Manulife Indonesia Life Insurance, was given to UT as a form of appreciation for the ongoing collaboration and support in the DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) scholarship program.
The handover ceremony was attended by several key officials from both parties, including Prof. Paken Pandiangan as Vice Rector for Information Systems and Student Affairs of UT, Ms. Lauren Sulistiawati as President Director & CEO of Manulife Indonesia, Ms. Michelle Taylor-Jones as Global Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer of Manulife, Mr. Sudesh Thevasenabathy as Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion of Manulife Asia, Ms. Apriliani T. Siregar as Director & General Counsel and DEI Chairwoman Council of Manulife Indonesia, Ms. Shierly Ge as Chief Marketing Officer of Manulife Indonesia, and Mr. Vandy Garsetta R. Makki as Chief Human Resources Officer of Manulife Indonesia.
One of the scholarship recipients, Widiyarti, a student with physical disabilities from the Law Study Program at UT Jakarta, shared her experience in undergoing online lectures. With high enthusiasm, she overcame the challenges of independent learning and aspires to become a lawyer.
“I am very happy and surprised to receive this scholarship, which opens the way for us to continue our studies. The learning and exam process at UT is very convenient for us,” said Widyarti.
A similar sentiment was felt by Mochammad Al Hafizh, a student from the Management Study Program at UT Jakarta who also received a Manulife scholarship.
“Initially, it was difficult to adapt to the online system, but UT provided a lot of support so that now I am used to it, and I feel comfortable,” he said.
In her remarks, Ms. Lauren Sulistiawati expressed her hope that the scholarship recipients would continue to be enthusiastic in pursuing knowledge.
“We believe that education has the power to change lives. This program is a real manifestation of our commitment to supporting inclusive education in Indonesia,” said Lauren, President Director & CEO of Manulife Indonesia.
Ms. Michelle Taylor-Jones, as Global Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer of Manulife, also affirmed Manulife’s strong support for this important program.
“Manulife not only provides financial support for students but is also committed to supporting inclusive education for our friends with disabilities so that they are ready to enter the world of work with confidence.”
In line with this, Prof. Paken Pandiangan expressed his appreciation to Manulife Indonesia for its contribution.
“UT continues to open access to education for all levels of society, including our friends with disabilities. They have equal opportunities to develop and pursue higher education through UT.”
Through this program, UT hopes to continue to be an inclusive educational institution for all members of society, including persons with disabilities. By providing flexible distance learning facilities, UT is committed to providing equal opportunities for every individual to pursue higher education and develop their potential.
“For UT students with disabilities, continue to be enthusiastic, ‘Go Beyond Your Limits’ and be an inspiration to all. Learn tirelessly, never give up, and reach for a brighter future.”
