Alumni of the Capuchin-run Universitas Widya Dharma Pontianak (UWDP) have granted a college scholarship to a student from a remote border hamlet in West Kalimantan, Indonesia.
The initiative reflects a deepening culture of solidarity among graduates of the Catholic university.
The UWDP Alumni Association, known as IKA, awarded the scholarship in September 2025 to Sherly, a Business Management student, covering her fixed tuition fee (Uang Kuliah Tunggal or UKT).
The initiative began in August as part of IKA’s collective effort to help financially struggling students continue their education.
“This scholarship program is the second time we have provided support for UWDP students. We hope to continue this initiative in the future,” said IKA Chair Mr. Tioyono in an interview with LiCAS News.
From Border Hamlet to University Hall
Sherly comes from Batang Lupar District in Kapuas Hulu Regency, a remote area along Indonesia’s border with Sarawak, Malaysia. Reaching Pontianak from her hometown requires a 15-hour bus ride followed by a 1.5-hour journey by motorbike.
Her journey to university has been far from easy. After finishing junior high school in her village, she studied under the guidance of the Augustinian Sisters (OSA) in Ketapang City—about 24 hours away by land.
She later dropped out for two years and worked as a canteen attendant before meeting Sr. Prudentia OSA, who connected her with the Yayasan Karsa Cipta Asa (YKCA) Foundation to help her resume her education.
Through YKCA’s support and its partnership with the Widya Dharma Foundation, Sherly became eligible for the alumni-funded scholarship.
“May Sherly continue her studies well and complete her education on time,” said former IKA Chairwoman Veronica Ellin, who worked to secure the scholarship’s release.
Continuing the Spirit of Solidarity
The symbolic turnover of the scholarship took place at UWDP and was witnessed by Dr. M. Hadi Santoso, S.E., M.M. (Dean), Genrawan Hoendarto, S.T., M.Kom. (Vice Dean), Desta Ovilini, S.Kom., M.M. (IKA Supervisor), and Veronica Ellin.
IKA said the program demonstrates how alumni solidarity can change lives and sustain the university’s mission to form students grounded in service, compassion, and community engagement.
Capuchin Legacy in Education
Founded in August 1969, UWDP operates under the Widya Dharma Foundation, owned by the Capuchin Order of the Pontianak Province. The foundation is currently headed by Fr. Amandus Ambot, OFMCap, former Provincial Minister of the Capuchins.
The scholarship, alumni leaders said, continues the Capuchin tradition of empowering youth from the country’s margins through education — a legacy that remains vital in West Kalimantan’s most remote communities.
18-word blurb:
Alumni of Capuchin-run UWDP grant scholarship to Sherly, a student from remote Kapuas Hulu, advancing faith-driven solidarity.
18-word blurb:
UWDP alumni extend scholarship aid to student from remote Kapuas Hulu, continuing the university’s mission of faith and solidarity.
