SEAMEO RECFON

First 2026 Indonesia ECCNE Working Group (Pokja) Meeting: Advancing Implementation via Digital Innovation and Multisectoral Partnerships

Admin PRP — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 01:24:17 +0000

JAKARTA — SEAMEO RECFON successfully conducted the 1st Indonesia Early Childhood Care, Nutrition, and Education (ECCNE) Working Group (Pokja) Meeting of 2026 on 29 July 2026. Held virtually, the meeting brought together academic partners, local government representatives, professional organizations, and other ECCNE stakeholders to exchange knowledge and strengthen multisectoral collaboration in implementing the ECCNE Program across its partner districts in Indonesia.

Opening the meeting, Prof. Dr. dr. Rini Sekartini, Sp.A(K), Director of SEAMEO RECFON, emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of holistic early childhood development efforts. She expressed her hope that the Working Group would continue serving as a platform for learning, collaboration, and monitoring the progress of ECCNE Program implementation.

“Through continuous collaboration and shared learning, we can further strengthen ECCNE implementation and support every child in achieving optimal growth and development,” said Prof. Rini. (adapted from opening remarks)

Following the opening session, Dr. Umi Fahmida, ECCNE Program Coordinator, presented the latest progress and achievements of the ECCNE Program across the partner districts. The presentation provided participants with updates on ECCNE’s current model expansion, namely ECCNE–ASD, Program Extender, and Disaster-Resilient Village. In addition, the presentation also highlighted the implementation mapping through the microsite’s monitoring and evaluation submission of ECCNE activities carried out during the first semester of 2026, serving as a foundation for subsequent discussions.

The first technical session featured Dr. Indriani from LKBN ANTARA, who discussed the use of WhatsApp as a platform to support parenting sessions in early childhood education centers. She explained how digital communication could strengthen interactions between educators and parents while making parenting sessions more accessible and sustainable.

“Digital communication platforms such as WhatsApp can become practical tools for delivering parenting messages and fostering continuous engagement with parents,” she explained. (adapted from presentation topic)

The meeting continued with a showcase session on strengthening the monitoring of ECCNE Program implementation through a multisectoral approach at the district level. Dr. Rahmawati, S.Gizi, M.Si, an ECCNE Program Extender alumna from Maros Regency, shared practical experiences from technical assistance activities. She demonstrated how effective planning, collaboration, and efficient resource utilization had enabled the successful implementation of parenting activities despite limited resources.

“Our experience in Maros showed that strong collaboration and efficient resource utilization can create meaningful impacts, even without large budgets,” she shared.

Complementing the discussion, H. Sulaeman Samad, M.Si., Head of the Regional Development Planning Agency (Bapperida) of Maros Regency, highlighted the strategic role of local government leadership in sustaining ECCNE Program implementation. He explained that integrated planning, budgeting, and coordination across local government agencies were essential to ensuring the continuity of multisectoral programs.

“Leadership commitment is the key to bringing sectors together and ensuring that ECCNE becomes part of integrated regional development planning,” H. Sulaeman Samad emphasized.

The meeting concluded with an interactive discussion session, allowing participants to exchange experiences, address implementation challenges, and identify opportunities for strengthening multisectoral coordination across districts. The dialogue reaffirmed the importance of continuous communication and collaboration among ECCNE Program partners.

Through the 1st Indonesia ECCNE Working Group Meeting of 2026, SEAMEO RECFON reaffirmed its commitment to advancing evidence-based, multisectoral approaches to early childhood care, nutrition, and education. By promoting digital innovation, strengthening partnerships, and facilitating knowledge exchange, SEAMEO RECFON will continue supporting local governments and stakeholders in creating enabling environments where every child can grow, learn, and thrive.

SEAMEO RECFON Strengthens Holistic Integrative Early Childhood Education Through the “Anakku Sehat dan Cerdas” Training of Trainers in Muara Enim

Admin PRP — Wed, 05 Aug 2026 08:16:20 +0000

MUARA ENIM – As part of its ongoing commitment to strengthening holistic early childhood development in Indonesia, SEAMEO RECFON, in collaboration with the Muara Enim District Government through the Division for Early Childhood Education and Non-Formal Education (PAUD & PNF), successfully conducted the “Anakku Sehat dan Cerdas” (Early Childhood Care, Nutrition, and Education/ECCNE) Training of Trainers (ToT) in two batches on 14–16 July and 20–22 July 2026.

The training brought together 141 principals, teachers, and education personnel from 26 sub-districts across Muara Enim District. The first batch involved 69 participants and the second batch 72 participants. In this ToT, each batch consisted of 24 instructional hours (JPL), with enhanced sessions focusing on ensuring optimal child nutrition, assessing children’s nutritional status, and recording, documenting, and reporting data through the Dapodik system.

These strengthened competencies are expected to contribute to the achievement of several relevant Holistic-Integrative Early Childhood Education (PAUD HI) indicators, particularly those related to children’s health, nutrition, and growth monitoring.

The training was officially opened and closed by the Head of the Division for Early Childhood Education and Non-Formal Education Development (PAUD & PNF) of Muara Enim District, Ekawati, S.E., who highlighted the importance of translating the knowledge gained during the training into concrete actions within schools and communities.

As an output of the training, each participating Early Childhood Education (ECE) center is required to develop a Follow-up Action Plan for the 2026/2027 Academic Year, outlining concrete strategies and activities to support the achievement of each PAUD HI indicator in accordance with the needs and context of their respective institutions.

“The training was intended not only to expand participants’ knowledge, but also to encourage every school principal, teacher, and education personnel to put what they had learned into practice within their respective institutions,” she said.

She further emphasized that the success of the “Anakku Sehat dan Cerdas” Program should be measured not by the number of training activities conducted, but by the increasing number of children who grow up healthy, intelligent, and happy through access to quality holistic early childhood services.

Developed by SEAMEO RECFON, the “Anakku Sehat dan Cerdas” (ECCNE) Program promotes an integrated approach that combines education, nutrition, health, caregiving, and child protection to support children’s optimal growth and development. Through the Training of Trainers model, participants are expected to transfer the knowledge and skills they have acquired to fellow educators, ensuring that quality ECCNE practices continue to expand across Muara Enim District.

This initiative reflects SEAMEO RECFON’s continued commitment to working hand in hand with local governments and education stakeholders to strengthen the implementation of holistic early childhood care, nutrition, and education across Indonesia. By building local capacity and fostering cross-sector collaboration, the program contributes to creating healthier, smarter, and happier children who are well prepared for the future.

SEAMEO RECFON and Local Governments Reaffirmed Commitment to Strengthening ECCNE Program Implementation Through Program Extenders Initiative in 7 Districts Across Indonesia

Admin PRP — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 08:26:56 +0000

JAKARTA – SEAMEO RECFON held the Closing Ceremony for the Technical Assistance for the Implementation of the Early Childhood Care, Nutrition, and Education (ECCNE) Program on Tuesday (July 21), marking the completion of the three-month assignment of seven Program Extenders across seven partner districts in Indonesia. The event also served as a platform for local governments to deliver formal commitments to ensure the continuity of program implementation following the end of intensive technical assistance provided by the Program Extenders.

From April 1 to July 30, 2026, one Program Extender was assigned to each of seven partner districts, Bangka, Brebes, East Lombok, Maros, Pekalongan, Sambas, and Solok, to provide technical assistance in implementing the ECCNE Program’s Action Plan (RTL) following the Master of Trainers (MOT) Training conducted earlier this year. Their assistance included facilitating cross-sectoral coordination, supporting district MOT Teams in monitoring implementation down to the early childhood education (PAUD) unit level, and assisting with program administration and documentation. This included preparing and facilitating the formal issuance of district decrees establishing the ECCNE MOT Teams and endorsing the ECCNE RTL. This technical assistance formed part of SEAMEO RECFON’s broader effort to strengthen ECCNE Program implementation in support of Holistic Integrative Early Childhood Education (PAUDHI) and to accelerate stunting reduction in Indonesia.

The Director of SEAMEO RECFON, Prof. Dr. dr. Rini Sekartini, SpA(K), expressed appreciation to all Program Extenders for their dedication throughout their assignment.

“On behalf of SEAMEO RECFON, I would like to extend my deepest appreciation for the outstanding dedication shown by the Program Extenders over the past three months, from April 1 to July 30, 2026. We hope that the Master of Trainers (MOT) Teams in each district have been well supported by the Program Extenders in carrying out their three core functions: coordination, monitoring, and administration and documentation,” said Prof. Rini.

Prof. Rini also encouraged all local governments to use this moment as an opportunity to strengthen synergy in ensuring the sustainability of ECCNE Program implementation.

“Let us use this moment to reinforce our collective commitment to sustaining ECCNE Program implementation in support of achieving Holistic Integrative Early Childhood Education (PAUD HI) and accelerating stunting reduction in Indonesia,” she added.

Program Extenders Catalyze ECCNE Implementation at District and PAUD Levels

Throughout the assistance period, the Program Extenders facilitated several key strengthening initiatives. These included drafting and formalizing district decrees establishing the ECCNE Master of Trainers (MOT) Teams and approving the ECCNE Action Plans (RTL) for the next three years, as well as supporting the implementation of Training of Trainers (TOT) sessions for PAUD centres. They also strengthened the monitoring system through the ECCNE microsite by supporting the completion of monitoring forms at both district and PAUD unit levels, compiled databases of PAUD centres and educators who had completed TOT training since the program’s initiation, and promoted cross-sector collaboration to mobilize shared resources for ECCNE RTL implementation.

The Coordinator of the ECCNE Program at SEAMEO RECFON, Dr. Umi Fahida, explained that these achievements were the result of close collaboration between SEAMEO RECFON and local governments, with the Program Extenders serving as catalysts that accelerated the program’s implementation process.

“These young colleagues played an important catalytic role. The real achievement belongs to all seven districts and their local governments, who strengthened the MOT Team decrees, carried out TOT training, expanded the TOT alumni database, and reinforced budget allocations,” Dr. Umi explained.

She added that over the three-month implementation period, SEAMEO RECFON had received 1,482 submissions through the completion of monitoring and evaluation forms by PAUD centres and local governments via the ECCNE microsite.

“We are grateful to have received 1,482 monitoring submissions from PAUD centres and local governments. In addition, the program has reached more than 1,300 PAUD centres,” she said.

According to Dr. Umi, the program’s main objective was not only to ensure the implementation of the ECCNE Program at the district level, but also to ensure that its benefits were felt directly by families and young children.

“We hope that once these young colleagues have completed their assignment, ECCNE Program implementation will continue at the PAUD unit level. The ultimate goal of this initiative is to ensure that its benefits reach parents and young children, supporting their optimal growth and development”, she said.

Local Governments’ Commitment to Program Continuity

The event also provided a platform for the seven district governments that had received technical assistance from the Program Extenders to formally declare their commitment to the continued implementation of the ECCNE Program. Among the highlights was the commitment expressed by the Maros District Government.

The Head of BAPERIDA (Regional Development Planning, Research, and Development Agency) of Maros District, H. Sulaeman Samad, S.IP., M.S., emphasized that investing in human resource development from an early age was among the most important investments for the district’s future.

“In line with the direction set by our Regent, the most valuable investment a district can make is in its human resources, beginning in early childhood. The presence of the ECCNE Program, as a collaborative initiative between the Maros District Government and SEAMEO RECFON, has become a tangible manifestation of this broader movement,” he said.

Mr. Sulaeman added that the ECCNE Program had brought change down to the community level by shifting the way educators and parents viewed the importance of early childhood care, nutrition, and education.

As a demonstration of its commitment to sustainability, the Maros District Government will integrate the ECCNE Program into regional planning documents, replicate good practices across all sub-districts, and strengthen cross-sector collaboration to support stunting reduction efforts.

Continued Collaboration for the Next Generation

During a symbolic Closing Ceremony led by the Deputy Director for Administration of SEAMEO RECFON, Dr. M. Dzaky F. Surapranata, responsibility for sustaining the ECCNE Program was formally handed over to the district governments. SEAMEO RECFON will continue to provide support through capacity building, technical resources, and monitoring systems.

The completion of the Program Extenders’ assignment marks not the end of the ECCNE Program in the seven districts, but the beginning of stronger local ownership in ensuring that every child has access to quality care, nutrition, health, and education services. Through continued collaboration with local governments, SEAMEO RECFON remains optimistic that the ECCNE Program will continue to expand and contribute to nurturing a healthier, smarter, and more resilient generation of Indonesians.

SEAMEO RECFON Strengthens Collaboration with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to Advance National Nutrition and Human Resource Development

Admin PRP — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 07:29:56 +0000

JAKARTA – As part of its commitment to supporting Indonesia’s national priorities in education and nutrition, SEAMEO RECFON (Regional Centre for Food and Nutrition) recently held an audience meeting with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to introduce its strategic programs and explore opportunities for stronger collaboration in advancing human resource development.

During the meeting with Didik Suhardi, Ph.D., Special Staff for Management and Governance, SEAMEO RECFON presented its mandate in education and training, research capacity building, information dissemination, partnerships, and community development in the field of food and nutrition. Established in 1968 and hosted by the University of Indonesia, SEAMEO RECFON has served as a regional centre of excellence in food and nutrition for nearly six decades.

“SEAMEO plays a strategic role in supporting the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, not only through research but also by ensuring that its work contributes to learning in schools. Going forward, there are many opportunities to strengthen collaboration between SEAMEO RECFON and the Ministry’s directorates to support evidence-based education programmes,” said Dr. Didik Suhardi.

Dr. Didik Suhardi also highlighted SEAMEO RECFON’s strategic role in supporting the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education through programmes that extend beyond research and contribute directly to improving learning in schools. He also encouraged stronger institutional collaboration to maximise the impact of SEAMEO’s initiatives across the education sector.

A Life-Cycle Approach to Nutrition

Director of SEAMEO RECFON, Prof. Rini Sekartini introduced the Centre’s three flagship programmes, which address nutrition and human development across every stage of life.

“SEAMEO RECFON has three flagship programmes: Anakku Sehat dan Cerdas (Early Childhood Care, Nutrition, and Education), which focuses on the prenatal period up to six years of age; Nutrition Goes to School (NGTS), which supports children aged 6 to 18 years; and Nutrition Goes to Workplace (NGTW), which promotes nutrition for productivity among the working-age population,” said Prof.Rini .

Together, these flagship programmes demonstrate SEAMEO RECFON’s commitment to strengthening nutrition interventions throughout the life cycle, from early childhood to adulthood.

Supporting National Priorities Through Evidence-Based Programmes

SEAMEO RECFON continues to align its initiatives with Indonesia’s national development agenda. Through its flagship programmes, the Centre supports key government initiatives, including Holistic Integrative Early Childhood Education (PAUDHI), School/Madrasa Health Programme(UKS/M), the Seven Habits of Great Indonesian Children programme, and workplace health promotion for educators.

Highlighting the Centre’s achievements in 2026, Prof. Rini shared:

“This year, SEAMEO RECFON has trained approximately 2,500 early childhood teachers, health workers, and community health volunteers from more than 1,800 early childhood education centres across 14 districts and municipalities. We have also developed more than 1,000 local government representatives as Master Trainers in 133 districts and municipalities.”

She also highlighted the progress of the NGTS programme.

“Through NGTS, we have trained approximately 3,500 teachers from 2,400 educational institutions and supported the development of 41 independent model schools and madrasahs from nearly 300 assisted schools.”

Emphasising the importance of collaboration, Prof. Rini added:

“Through advocacy and dialogue, we remain committed to ensuring that food and nutrition programmes create broader impacts for communities.”

Advancing Regional Excellence in Food and Nutrition

Over nearly six decades, SEAMEO RECFON has conducted 139 research studies, produced 85 intellectual property rights for educational materials, and published 214 scientific publications. The Centre also operates an ISO-certified nutrition laboratory at the University of Indonesia’s Salemba Campus.

Its programmes have reached several Southeast Asian countries, including the Philippines, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, and Myanmar, through research collaborations, capacity-building initiatives, and regional partnerships.

Highlighting the Centre’s unique role within the SEAMEO network, Prof. Rini noted:

“SEAMEO RECFON is the only SEAMEO Centre dedicated to food and nutrition in Southeast Asia.”

Looking ahead, SEAMEO RECFON remains committed to strengthening collaboration with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education and other strategic partners to advance evidence-based nutrition policies, improve learning outcomes, and contribute to the development of healthier, more productive, and globally competitive human resources across Indonesia and Southeast Asia.

SEAMEO RECFON Perkuat Keahlian Dokumentasi Institusi melalui Lokakarya Fotografi dan Videografi Berbasis Ponsel

Admin PRP — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 02:10:41 +0000

Jakarta – Dalam upaya memperkuat kualitas komunikasi publik dan dokumentasi institusi, SEAMEO RECFON menyelenggarakan Lokakarya Fotografi dan Videografi Berbasis Ponsel pada 15–16 Juli 2026 di Kantor SEAMEO RECFON, Salemba, Jakarta. Kegiatan ini diikuti oleh jajaran Board of Directors, staf dari berbagai divisi, serta peserta Praktik Kerja Lapangan (PKL) dari SMKN 40 Jakarta sebagai bagian dari penguatan kapasitas sumber daya manusia dalam menghasilkan dokumentasi visual yang berkualitas.

Di era digital, dokumentasi visual tidak lagi sekadar menjadi pelengkap sebuah kegiatan, tetapi telah berkembang menjadi salah satu instrumen utama dalam membangun komunikasi publik yang efektif. Sebagai SEAMEO Centre yang berfokus pada bidang pangan dan gizi, SEAMEO RECFON memiliki mandat untuk mendiseminasikan pengetahuan, praktik baik, serta capaian program kepada berbagai pemangku kepentingan di tingkat nasional maupun regional. Karena itu, kemampuan menghasilkan foto dan video yang informatif, menarik, dan sesuai dengan standar institusi menjadi kompetensi yang semakin penting.

Dalam sambutannya, Deputi Direktur Administrasi SEAMEO RECFON, Dr. M. Dzaky F. Surapranata, S.E., M.Comm, menegaskan bahwa dokumentasi memiliki peran strategis dalam memperkuat visibilitas dan akuntabilitas publik lembaga.

“Di tengah meningkatnya kebutuhan komunikasi publik, dokumentasi kegiatan bukan lagi sekadar pelengkap, melainkan instrumen utama untuk menunjukkan dampak nyata program SEAMEO RECFON kepada masyarakat dan para pemangku kepentingan. Karena itu, setiap dokumentasi visual yang dihasilkan harus memenuhi standar kualitas, mencerminkan identitas institusi, serta tetap menjunjung etika dan keberagaman budaya. Kemampuan fotografi dan videografi juga menjadi kompetensi penting bagi setiap staf, terutama ketika mendokumentasikan pelaksanaan program di berbagai wilayah dengan kondisi yang beragam,” ujar Dr. Dzaky.

Lokakarya menghadirkan Faiz Rafid, Smartphone Photographer, yang membagikan materi mengenai visual storytelling, teknik fotografi dan videografi berbasis ponsel, pengaturan kamera, komposisi, pencahayaan, hingga pemanfaatan kecerdasan buatan (AI) dalam proses pascaproduksi konten visual. Melalui kombinasi sesi teori dan praktik, peserta dibekali keterampilan untuk menghasilkan dokumentasi yang tidak hanya menarik secara visual, tetapi juga mampu menyampaikan pesan secara efektif.

Sebagai bagian dari pembelajaran berbasis praktik, peserta dibagi ke dalam beberapa kelompok dan mengikuti sistem rotasi di tiga lokasi, yaitu ruang kelas, laboratorium, dan kantin. Pada setiap lokasi, peserta mempraktikkan teknik pengambilan foto dan video dengan objek yang berbeda, mulai dari aktivitas pembelajaran, proses pengujian laboratorium, hingga interaksi di area kantin. Seluruh hasil dokumentasi kemudian dikurasi dan diolah menjadi karya visual menggunakan aplikasi CapCut, termasuk video berdurasi maksimal satu menit yang disusun secara kolaboratif.

Pada hari kedua, setiap kelompok mempresentasikan hasil karya mereka untuk memperoleh masukan dari Bapak Seno Hartono, Ketua Kelompok Kerja Publikasi, Biro Komunikasi dan Hubungan Masyarakat Kementerian Pendidikan Dasar dan Menengah Republik Indonesia. Sesi umpan balik ini menjadi kesempatan bagi peserta untuk memahami lebih dalam standar dokumentasi visual yang efektif serta penerapannya dalam komunikasi institusi.

Melalui lokakarya ini, SEAMEO RECFON berharap seluruh peserta mampu menerapkan prinsip-prinsip visual storytelling, menghasilkan dokumentasi yang konsisten dengan standar institusi, serta memperkuat penyebarluasan informasi mengenai berbagai program dan dampak yang dihasilkan. Penguatan kapasitas ini diharapkan dapat mendukung peran SEAMEO RECFON sebagai pusat unggulan di bidang pangan dan gizi dalam menghadirkan komunikasi publik yang lebih profesional, kredibel, dan berdampak bagi masyarakat di Indonesia maupun kawasan Asia Tenggara.

SEAMEO RECFON Showcases Strategic Roadmap and Secures ICC Grant at SEAMEO CDM 2026

Admin PRP — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 03:58:22 +0000

CHONBURI, THAILAND – SEAMEO RECFON has reinforced its position as a regional leader in food and nutrition during the SEAMEO Centre Directors Meeting (CDM) 2026, held from July 14 to 15, 2026, at the Amari Bangsaen Hotel. Taking center stage during SEAMEO’s 60th-anniversary milestone, the Center successfully presented its long-term strategic vision and secured a significant regional collaboration grant.

Charting the Future: The 2026–2031 Strategic Roadmap

A primary highlight of the Center’s participation was the presentation of the working paper titled “SEAMEO RECFON Flagship Program Roadmap 2026–2031”. This document serves as a comprehensive guide to strengthening the Center’s contributions to regional food and nutrition priorities over the next five years.

The presentation, led by Dr. dr. Herqutanto, MPH., MARS., Sp.KKLP (Acting Director) and supported by Prof. Dr. dr. Rini Sekartini, Sp.A. (Director-elected?), aimed to garner strategic feedback from the SEAMEO Secretariat and other Centre Directors. By showcasing this roadmap, SEAMEO RECFON seeks to refine its flagship programs and expand partnership opportunities to ensure a sustainable regional impact.

Securing the SEAMEO ICC Grant for Inclusive Children
In a significant achievement for its collaborative efforts, SEAMEO RECFON was officially announced as a recipient of the SEAMEO Inter-Centre Collaboration (ICC) Grant for FY 2026/2027. Out of six eligible regional proposals, RECFON’s initiative was selected following a rigorous evaluation by an independent technical panel. The grant supports the programme “Transcultural Adaptation of Early Childhood Care, Nutrition and Education (ECCNE) Module for an Inclusive ECCNE Model for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Southeast Asia”. led by SEAMEO RECFON in partnership with SEAMEO SEN and SEAMEO RETRAC.

The programme will promote the adaptation and implementation of the Local Specific Food-Based Recommendations (LC-FBR) for young children with ASD across Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Bringing together SEAMEO Centres and academic partners including Universitas Indonesia, Universiti Putra Malaysia, the National Institute of Nutrition (Vietnam), and the National Institute of Public Health (Cambodia) the initiative reflects a shared commitment to advancing inclusive, culturally relevant nutrition and early childhood development through regional collaboration.

A Legacy of Excellence

Beyond these milestones, SEAMEO RECFON actively engaged in sharing its “best practices” and innovations with other centers, contributing to the collective success of the SEAMEO network during its 60th year. The Center also presented an accomplishment video to the Secretariat, highlighting its major achievements for the 2025/2026 fiscal year and its enduring contribution to the organization’s legacy.

Through its proactive participation at CDM 2026, SEAMEO RECFON continues to demonstrate its readiness to lead and innovate, ensuring that food and nutrition remains a top priority in the Southeast Asian developmental agenda.

SEAMEO RECFON Researcher Dwi Yanti Earns Doctorate in Biomedical Sciences from Universitas Indonesia

Admin PRP — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 02:56:04 +0000

JAKARTA, July 14, 2024 – SEAMEO RECFON proudly announces that one of its dedicated researchers, Dwi Yanti, S.Pd., M.Biomed, has officially earned her Doctoral degree in Biomedical Sciences from the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia (FKUI). She successfully defended her dissertation in an open ceremony held at the IMERI FKUI Teaching Theater.

Dr. Dwi Yanti presented her groundbreaking research titled “Epigenetic Determinants of Stunted Growth and Cognitive Development,” which provides a new molecular perspective on addressing stunting through the lens of epigenetics.

Uncovering the Biological Traces of Stunting

The study focused on children aged 18-24 months in East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. Using a relatable analogy, Dr. Dwi Yanti compared DNA to a “manual book” and DNA methylation to “sticky notes” that regulate how genes are read without changing the genetic code itself.

The research identified that stunted children exhibit distinct methylation patterns in specific genes, including SOCS3 (involved in growth signaling), SOX10 (involved in neural myelination), PCDHGC5 (involved in neuronal connection), and MTHFR (involved in one carbon metabolism). Dr. Dwi Yanti described these findings as “biological embedding,” where early-life environmental and nutritional factors leave measurable biological traces.

A significant finding was the “dissociation” between these biological changes and actual cognitive performance at 18-24 months. This indicates a latency period, where biological alterations serve as an early warning sign before functional cognitive deficits become fully apparent in later school years.

The Synergy of Nutrition and Psychosocial Stimulation

A key takeaway from the dissertation is the necessity of integrating psychosocial stimulation with nutritional interventions. The data showed that positive home stimulation is a strong predictor of cognitive development at 18-24 months, even among children who are already stunted.

Furthermore, the research highlighted the critical role of micronutrients. In the studied population, over 80% of children had inadequate folate intake, which directly impacts the DNA methylation process. Dr. Dwi Yanti explained that while Vitamin B12 acts as a “vehicle,” folate is the “material” being transported; therefore, both must be balanced in nutritional programs.

A Global Collaborative Success

This doctoral research is part of the Action Against Stunting Hub (AASH), an international multidisciplinary project funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) through the Global Challenges Research Fund (GCRF). The project involves 17 partner institutions across Indonesia, India, and Senegal.

The promotion was supervised by Prof. Dr. Dra. Asmarinah, M.S. as Promoter, with Dr. Ir. Umi Fahmida, M.Sc. (SEAMEO RECFON) and Prof. Paul Haggarty, Ph.D. (University of Aberdeen, UK) serving as Co-promoters. The examination board awarded Dr. Dwi Yanti the predicate of “Very Satisfying” (Sangat Memuaskan) with a cumulative GPA of 3.97, honoring her 12-semester academic journey.

Advocating for Evidence-Based Policy

Leadership at FKUI emphasized that these findings must move beyond academic publication to inform evidence-based public policy. By adopting a “precision medicine” approach, molecular changes can be detected early, allowing for targeted interventions to protect the developmental potential of Indonesia’s children.

The management and staff of SEAMEO RECFON extend their warmest congratulations to Dr. Dwi Yanti, S.Pd., M.Biomed. We look forward to the impact her expertise will have on reducing stunting and improving the quality of life for future generations.

SEAMEO RECFON and Partners Strengthen Disaster-Resilient ECCNE Capacity Through Refreshment Training of Trainers in East Lombok

Admin PRP — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 06:10:33 +0000

East Lombok, Indonesia – SEAMEO RECFON, in collaboration with the local government of East Lombok District and Universitas Mataram, organized the Refreshment Training of Trainers (ToT) on the Early Childhood Care, Nutrition, and Education (ECCNE) Program with Disaster-Resilient Village Enrichment on 8–9 July 2026. The hybrid training brought together 25 early childhood educators from 14 ECCNE partner preschools (PAUD) across Sambelia Subdistrict as part of the pilot development of the Disaster-Resilient Village model.

The activity reflects SEAMEO RECFON’s continued commitment to strengthening community preparedness for disasters while safeguarding the health, nutrition, growth, and development of young children. Building upon the ECCNE post-disaster recovery model implemented in East Lombok in 2018, the program expands its focus toward disaster preparedness and resilience through community-based approaches.

Quote from Director of SEAMEO RECFON (or representative giving the opening remarks).
“Building resilient communities begins with investing in children’s health, nutrition, and early learning. By strengthening local capacity before disasters occur, we can better protect every child’s future.”

The initiative is made possible through a strategic partnership between SEAMEO RECFON, the local government of East Lombok District, and Universitas Mataram. During his opening remarks, Dr. W. Sudiarta, Secretary of the Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM) at Universitas Mataram, highlighted the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in strengthening community capacity and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the program.

“Meaningful change happens when universities, governments, and communities work together. Through collaboration, we can strengthen local capacity and create a lasting impact for children and families.”

In addition to strengthening the capacity of PAUD educators, the program also engages university students participating in the Community Service Program (KKN), as both facilitators during this Refreshment ToT and as a program collaborator to synergize their thematic KKN projects within ECCNE ecosystem, during the implementation of ECCNE activities in their respective villages until August 2026.

Before attending the face-to-face sessions, participants completed self-paced online learning by studying nine ECCNE modules and completing post-module assessments. The two-day refresher training then provided interactive discussions and practical learning sessions to reinforce participants’ understanding while introducing new materials related to disaster preparedness and family resilience.

Throughout the training, participants explored various topics, including disaster risk awareness, climate change adaptation, child growth and health during emergencies, food and nutrition security, psychosocial resilience, gender equality and social inclusion (GEDSI), and the role of local governments in implementing Disaster-Resilient ECCNE programs. The sessions were delivered by experts from SEAMEO RECFON, partner institutions, and the East Lombok Disaster Management Agency (BPBD).

“Our collaboration with SEAMEO RECFON through this initiative marks a strategic step in strengthening the capacity of educators and communities to foster disaster preparedness from an early age. We hope this effort will help build more resilient communities and better protect children from disaster risks.”

A key outcome of the training was the development of Follow-up Action Plans (Rencana Tindak Lanjut/RTL) by each participating PAUD in Sambelia subdistrict. These action plans will guide schools in implementing ECCNE activities enriched with disaster preparedness components over the coming months. During the implementation phase, Universitas Mataram students participating in the KKN program will provide technical assistance to support schools in carrying out their plans with guidance from SEAMEO RECFON from July to August 2026. Following the KKN program, the Disaster-Resilient ECCNE pilot initiative will continue through ongoing mentoring and monitoring by the ECCNE Master of Trainers (MOT) Team in East Lombok, ensuring the sustainability of the program and supporting participating ECE centres in implementing their action plans over the long term.

SEAMEO RECFON Supports Community Nutrition Education through SAPA SEHAT and SENYUM PAUD Together with FKUI Students

Admin PRP — Tue, 19 May 2026 06:54:22 +0000

Jakarta, 7 May 2026

SEAMEO RECFON provided facilitation support to students and lecturers of the Master’s Program in Nutrition Science, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia (FKUI) in the implementation of a field learning activity for the Food and Nutrition Intervention course held on 7 May 2026 in Utan Kayu, Jakarta. The activity served as part of the students’ learning process in designing and implementing promotive and preventive nutrition interventions directly within the community.

The field activity marked the final stage of the Food and Nutrition Intervention course series, conducted from 4–11 May 2026. The course focused on identifying nutrition-related issues, analyzing community conditions, and developing nutrition education strategies tailored to the needs of the target groups. The field learning session on 7 May 2026 provided students with the opportunity to apply the intervention plans and educational materials they had previously developed.

A total of nine students, along and six lecturers from the Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia together with the SEAMEO RECFON, participated in this activity. The students implemented two educational programs, namely SAPA SEHAT, which targeted food vendors in the Utan Kayu area, and SENYUM PAUD, which designed for local early childhood education teachers.

During the SAPA SEHAT session, seven food vendors in Utan Kayu were introduced to the health impacts of excessive sugar, salt, and fat consumption. The students delivered the educational materials in a simple and accessible language to ensure that the message is well received by community members, covering topics ranging from the risk of hypertension due to excessive salt intake, as well as diabetes and obesity associated with high sugar consumption. The session was conducted interactively, encouraging active participation from the vendors, who also shared their daily experiences.

During the session, students also provided practical recommendations tailored to the types of food sold by each vendor were also provided. Fried food vendors were encouraged to increase the proportion of vegetables in their products while applying cooking techniques that help minimize oil absorption, beverage sellers were advised to offer different serving sizes and reduce the use of sweetened condensed milk, while other food vendors were reminded to limit the use of salt and flavor enhancers while incorporating more vegetables and protein sources into their menu offerings. This approach reflects SEAMEO RECFON’s commitment to promoting practical, community-based and applicable nutrition solutions.

The activity then continued with the SENYUM PAUD session involving teachers from three early childhood education centers in the Utan Kayu area, namely PAUD Waringin, Kenanga, and Mustika Indah. During this session, participants were introduced to the concept of the Balanced Nutrition Pyramid, ideal daily meal portions, and demonstrations of sugar, salt, and fat measurements using measuring spoons to help visualize healthy consumption limits . The students also conducted interactive educational game titled “Building My Plate” to enhance participants’ understanding of balanced nutrition.

Through this activity, the teachers were encouraged to identify balanced meal compositions and apply the principles of healthy eating in daily practices for young children.

Dr. Umi Fahmida, lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia and advisor to SEAMEO RECFON, expressed her hope that this field learning activity would provide meaningful benefits to the community while also serving valuable learning experience for the students. “We hope that early childhood education teachers can understand the importance of balanced nutrition and apply it not only for themselves, but also in their daily interactions with students in the classroom,” she stated.

The activity received positive responses from the participants. Ms. Mardiani from PAUD Kenanga shared that she gained many new insights from the session. “TThe materials were delivered in a clear and engaging way, making the nutrition knowledge was easy to understand. I also learned new ways to reduce oil usage when cooking, and I hope the knowledge about the Balanced Nutrition Pyramid can be shared with other teachers and parents,” she said.

Through this field learning activity, students gained hands-on experience in implementing promotive and preventive nutrition interventions within the community. The collaboration between the Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia and SEAMEO RECFON is also expected to strengthen students’ capacity through contextual, community-based, and practical learning experiences.

SEAMEO RECFON Strengthens Educators’ Capacity in School-Age Child Nutrition through the Closing of the Online Nutrition Goes to School Training Program

Admin PRP — Thu, 14 May 2026 04:09:43 +0000

Jakarta, 7 Mei 2026

SEAMEO RECFON officially marked the closing of the Online Nutrition Goes to School (NGTS) Training Program on 7 May 2026. As a regional center for food and nutrition research in Southeast Asia, SEAMEO RECFON organized this five-week training program to enhance the knowledge and skills of teachers, principals of schools and madrasahs, as well as other educational personnel from 125 districts/cities across 33 provinces in Indonesia in delivering nutrition and health education for school-age children and adolescents. The training also encouraged participants to develop school-based nutrition program Follow-Up Action Plans (RTL) as part of strengthening the School Health Unit Program (UKS/M) and the Healthy School Movement. A total of 550 participants registered for the training, with 494 participants remaining active until the closing day.

The session began with participant presentations of the Follow-Up Action Plans (RTL), developed as an outcome of the training in the form of nutrition programs for schools and madrasahs that are ready to be implemented to support the School Health Unit Program (UKS/M) and the Healthy School Movement. The presentations received feedback from SEAMEO RECFON nutrition expert, Dr. Luh Ade Ari Wiradnyani. “Identifying nutrition problems specifically in each school is an important foundation for driving meaningful and sustainable change. We need to identify more deeply what problems exist in the school, as this is the key to seeing real changes among students,” she stated.

Cross-sectoral synergy also strengthened this program. A representative from the Ministry of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia (Kemenag), Dr. Abdul Basit, S.Ag., M.M., delivered a presentation entitled Healthy Madrasah: Integrating Character Education, Nutrition, and Health into the Religious Curriculum. The presentation emphasized that strengthening students’ nutrition and health is an inseparable part of the madrasah curriculum and character development. “We must strengthen the concept of clean and healthy food within the madrasah environment. Nutrition and health are part of the implementation of deep learning,” he explained.

As one of the participants, Eka Mayasari from MIN 2 Bandar Lampung shared her experience during the program. “This program helped us understand that balanced nutrition is not only about eating enough, but also an investment in children’s future. Diverse and balanced eating habits can start from simple routines such as having breakfast,” she said.

The closing session concluded with remarks from the Acting Director of SEAMEO RECFON, Dr. dr. Herqutanto, MPH., MARS., Sp.KKLP., who expressed appreciation for the commitment and active participation of all participants throughout the training. “This training reflects our shared commitment to supporting the health and nutrition of school-aged children. We hope that the follow-up action plans that have been developed can be implemented consistently and create a sustainable impact on the school environment and students’ growth and development,” he concluded.

Through the Nutrition Goes to School Program, SEAMEO RECFON together with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education of the Republic of Indonesia (Kemendikdasmen) and the Ministry of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia (Kemenag) continues to strengthen the capacity of educators as key drivers in nurturing a healthier, smarter, and more competitive young generation in Indonesia.