In May 2006, a powerful earthquake measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale struck the Province of Central Java and Jogja. The quake killed thousands of people, causing widespread loss to infrastructure and property. Official tolls indicate that there were more than 5,000 deaths, 9,000 wounded, more than 100,000 displaced and more than 60,000 houses and buildings destroyed.
With funding assistance from Beiersdorf, CLSA, ROTA of Qatar Foundation and Soroptimist International, Titian Foundation has successfully rebuilt a Primary and Secondary school compound in the village of Bayat, Klaten, Central Java, a district lying directly on top of the quake fault. These government-owned school buildings were almost completely destroyed. Moreover, being located in the remote area, these schools lacked proper facilities to enhance their students’ knowledge and skills.
The rebuilt school compound is now housing three formal educational levels: Kindergarten, Primary and Secondary (TK, SD, SMP). The compound is enriched with comprehensive facilities, comprising of environment-friendly classrooms, big library, sport hall, art pavilion, internet facilities, computer laboratory, language laboratory and open-air playground. Over 1,000 students (aged between 5 -15 years) from surrounding villages are now able to pursue their education and sharpen their knowledge and skills there.
In August 2007, soon after completion of the building, Titian Foundation officially handed over the compound to the government in an inauguration ceremony overseen by Mr. Mardiyanto, the Governor of Central Java at the time. To ensure sustainability of the school, Titian Foundation has decided to stay in order to help the school officials manage the school operation. A series of programmes have been conducted for this purpose such as: setting up School Committee and PTA (Parents Teachers Association). Once all the necessary tools are set up for the smooth transition of the school to its independence, Titian Foundation will cease its involvement. The management and funding will then be the responsibility of the local government and school officials.