Bringing Education to Bali's Mountains

Welcoming new students

On 6 July, we proudly welcomed 14 new students, comprising 10 in elementary school and 4 in junior high school at the start of the new academic year. Their arrival brought new energy to the school as students and teachers began another year of interactive learning, sharing and development.

Celebrating Indonesia’s 81st Independence Day

On 17 August, all students celebrated Indonesia’s Independence Day with a flag raising ceremony, competitions and performances. Manikaji students won four prizes: first place in the boys’ helmet sack race, third place in the girls’ sack race, and second place in both the paired cracker-eating competition and Maja fruit painting. The celebration continued with a Puspanjali welcome dance, Genjek performances titled Hari Kemerdekaan and Merah Putih, modern dances, and the songs Kepompong and Empat Mata. These activities gave students opportunities to share their talents, build confidence and celebrate their national pride.

Preparing for the academic competency test

Senior high school students in grade 12 prepared for Indonesia’s Academic Competency Test (TKA) through a simulation on 23 September and a rehearsal on 12 October, helping them become familiar with the examination process.

Improving school sanitation with the Blue Karma Children Foundation

The Blue Karma Children Foundation sponsored new school toilets (1 girls’ & 1 boys’), helping create a cleaner, healthier and more comfortable learning environment for Manikaji students.

Advanced computer classes

Developing computer skills through excel and PowerPoint

From July to October, students in Grades 10–12 learned advanced Excel formulas, practised data analysis and used PowerPoint to present their findings. These activities strengthened their digital skills, communication and confidence.

Dry land regenerative agriculture into the dry season

Students practised making fertiliser, clearing weeds, collecting materials for solid organic fertiliser, and applying organic fertiliser and mulch to garden beds. These hands-on activities introduced them to sustainable farming and responsible land management.

Music development

Students continued practising and enjoying modern instruments and traditional Balinese bamboo music “Cungklik”, with a special Independence Day performance. From September to October, some also joined traditional music sessions at the Ban Office, learning more challenging songs.

Art and Bamboo Craft development

From July to September, art lessons covered drawing real-life objects, flora, fauna and illustrated stories using perspective, lighting, colour combinations and shading. From July to October, junior and senior high school students also made bamboo crafts, including cungklik and dragonflies, developing practical skills and appreciation for traditional craftsmanship.

We sincerely thank all donors and supporters for helping Manikaji students continue their meaningful learning experiences, develop their skills and creativity, and build confidence for a brighter future.