YILA Academy is dedicated to creating meaningful learning opportunities that empower young minds. Our commitment extends not only to the Indigenous Suku Anak Dalam (SAD) community, especially SAD children, but also to students in broader educational settings. While we focus on providing literacy programs and advocating for SAD children’s right to education, we also work to raise environmental awareness among students through engaging and interactive learning experiences.
To make environmental education more impactful, we incorporate hands-on activities, storytelling, and gamified lessons that introduce key topics such as climate change and sustainable practices. These creative approaches ensure that students not only understand sustainability concepts but also feel inspired to take action in their own communities.
By working with both SAD children and Junior High School students, YILA Academy strives to make education a bridge to empowerment. Strengthening literacy, fostering self-confidence, and promoting sustainability go hand in hand in shaping a generation that values knowledge, and environmental responsibility.

Image: In an interactive learning session, promoting literacy, environmental awareness, and sustainability

Learning becomes more meaningful when students are actively involved in the process. To make education more enjoyable and engaging, we recently organized activities that encouraged participation while reinforcing key learning concepts. Using movement-based exercises SAD children had the opportunity to explore new ideas in a fun and interactive way. These approaches not only helped them absorb knowledge more effectively but also boosted their enthusiasm and confidence in learning. Creating an inclusive and engaging environment allows students to feel more comfortable, curious, and motivated to grow.

Without access to basic learning materials, many SAD children struggle to develop essential literacy skills, further limiting their opportunities for growth. To help address this, YILA Academy is providing SAD children with essential learning equipment. Through this initiative, they receive books, writing materials, and other educational resources that support their literacy development. Beyond access to materials, this effort also fosters confidence and motivation, helping children overcome obstacles and see education as a positive and empowering experience.
Creating a more inclusive and supportive learning environment is key to ensuring that SAD children feel valued and encouraged. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to advocating for Indigenous rights to education, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn, preserve their cultural heritage, and contribute to their community with pride.

Image: Holding a banner that reads “Rights to Education for Sustainability,” facilitators and children proudly display the learning materials they have received

As part of “Bridging Divides: Committed to the Indigenous Right to Education,” YILA Academy is dedicated to ensuring that Suku Anak Dalam (SAD) children have access to education in a way that respects their identity and culture. Many SAD children face bullying, discrimination, and stigma, making public schools feel unwelcoming and discouraging them from attending. Without access to formal education, they are often left without basic literacy skills, limiting their future opportunities.

To address this challenge, we promote the right of SAD children to formal schooling while creating a safe and supportive environment for learning. Through community-driven advocacy, collaboration with local schools, and informal literacy training, we help them build the confidence and skills needed to transition into formal education. Strengthening their connection to learning not only empowers them individually but also preserves their cultural heritage, ensuring that education becomes a bridge to both personal growth and community sustainability.

Image: Students and facilitators from YILA Academy stand together in support of "Bridging Divides: Committed to the Indigenous Right to Education", advocating for inclusive education for Indigenous SAD children.