School for Outer Island in Indonesia

Dear our respected donors across the globe,

It is located on the top of one of the hills in the south of Tasikmalaya Regency, far from the crowds, amidst the towering trees and lush tea plantations. Unfortunately, the access to reach this place is not easy, as the road to this village is steep, rocky and muddy. Only motorcycles are able to traverse this road. Usually, local residents modify their motorcycle tires by covering them with chains to protect them from the mud.

Private Islamic Elementary School (MIS) Cilenjang is located in Campakasari Village, Bojonggambir District, Tasikmalaya Regency. Located atop the hill, its roofs are visible from afar. It looks beautiful amid the greenery.

MIS Cilenjang has three buildings with no flooring but dirt. The asbestos roof will heat up during hot days. The walls are made of woven bamboo. The rooms have no windows, and the door hinges are only made of scrap tires.

"Initially, MIS Cilenjang had six classrooms, but since 2019 they have to share with a local junior high school at the same location," Muhammad Kamaludin, one of the teachers explained clearly. 

MIS Cilenjang has around 60 students coming from three villages around the school. Another school located closest to the village is e kilometers away, and the children must walk to reach that school. The road until now has not been paved and the location is between the tea plantations.

MI Cilenjang was established in the 80’s, but it relocated twice. In 2014, MIS Cilenjang moved to its current location in Campakasari Village, getting near to the settlement area. The building that currently stands is was built by the community who wants their children to go to school every day.

"Previously, because the location of the school was very far from the settlement area, most children only attended the school 2 or 3 days a week. It was too far and difficult to reach, especially when it rains and there were no motorized vehicles. But now, children can go to school every day," Kamal said.

Every day, the students and teachers have to conduct teaching and learning activities in dust-filled classrooms. The classroom only has simple desks. Some students have to sit on the flood because of the limited seats. They sat on wooden boards to protect them from the dirt.

The lack of adequate facilities in this school does not dampen the spirit of the students. Among the students was Handi, a third-grader who enthusiastically goes to school every day. He walks to school along with his friends.

MIS Cilenja is one of the schools in Indonesia with inadequate facilities. Nevertheless, the hope for a better education in the outskirts of Tasikmalaya surges on

Indeed, the school or classroom condition in Indonesia is far from convenience for studying and teaching process for students and teachers.  We kindly thank you very much for your kindess and sincere help to support us. Please stay safe and healthy.

Warm regards,

Mohamad F. Amrullah