In September, 13  students in the Vocational Scholarship Program successfully graduated from their respective institutions. All of them pursued tourism-related fields, including food production, food and beverage services, and housekeeping. After a year of dedication and hard work, they completed their studies with satisfying results.

Five graduates from Karangasem Regency completed their training at Monarch Bali Candidasa. Six students from Gianyar graduated from Monarch Bali Gianyar, and the remaining two finished their studies at Monarch Bali Singaraja.

Before graduating, the students spent six months studying on campus, followed by on-the-job training in the industry. All completed their training at reputable hotels and resorts.

One student, Bobi from Karangasem, even had the opportunity to train in Malaysia. Now, all of them are working in the tourism industry, with many being recruited by the hotels where they completed their training.

Success Story from Graduate: Serli

One of the graduates of the Vocational Scholarship Program, Serli, shared her story. Here is what she told YKIP about her journey leading up to her graduation:

“I received a scholarship from YKIP when I was in 6th grade. At that time, my father was the only breadwinner in our family and had many people to support. The scholarship really helped ease the burden on his shoulders. Knowing that, I did my best to maintain my scholarship recipient status. I focused on my academics and took part in many school activities.

When I was in 12th grade, I learned that YKIP offered a one-year scholarship for vocational training, and I decided to apply. After a rigorous selection process, I was fortunate to be selected and began my training at Monarch Bali Gianyar.

After six months of studying on campus, I completed my job training at a five-star hotel in Nusa Dua. It was a fantastic opportunity to learn and adapt to industry demands. I learned to prepare a variety of Indonesian and international dishes, and I gained valuable insights from my seniors about time management and discipline. On my final day of training, when I reported to HR, the Pastry Division manager approached me and invited me to join the pastry kitchen. I was hesitant because I had no pastry experience, but he reassured me that everyone starts somewhere and that the seniors in the pastry kitchen would guide me. I agreed and continued working on my final paper while working in the hotel.

When I returned to campus, I was asked to meet with the head of the Culinary Division. He informed me that I had been selected to participate in an interview representing the culinary division to be considered for the best student on campus. I was shocked to be chosen among so many students.

During the interview, I met top students from other divisions, and we all competed to become the best of the best, with the grand prize of a trip to Singapore. I was extremely nervous, but I held onto hope. The results would be announced at graduation.

Graduation day was unforgettable. It marked the result of all my hard work over the past year. I was overjoyed to see my parents proudly watching as I shook hands with the school director. Before the ceremony ended, I was called to the stage with other top students from different divisions. I received the award for the best student in Culinary. Then they announced the overall Best Student. I didn’t win the grand prize or the trip to Singapore, but I am grateful to be recognised as the best in my division.

Now I enjoy my job at the same hotel and am learning a lot about pastry and baking. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of this wonderful journey. A big thank you to YKIP and the donors who made this possible.

YKIP wishes all graduates the best for their future endeavours. We also extend our thanks to the sponsors and donors who support the Vocational Scholarship Program and enable it to continue. For more information about our scholarship program, please contact info@ykip.org.