Insight on a workshop on out-of-school children

From May 7–9, 2026, I attended a three-day workshop at Infinity8 Bali in Jimbaran, Bali that was organized by BPKP Bali Province. The program focused on supporting and handling children who have dropped out of school, as well as understanding the challenges faced by communities in improving access to education. EBPP was one of only three educational institutions invited to represent the local district in this workshop.

As someone involved in community-based education through EBPP in Ban Village, this workshop provided valuable insight into issues that are still commonly found in rural areas. During the sessions, participants discussed several major factors that cause children to leave school, including difficult geographical conditions, economic hardship, social and cultural challenges, and early marriage. These situations continue to affect many children and limit their opportunities to complete their education.

The workshop also introduced several practical strategies that can help reduce the number of out-of-school children. These include improving accurate data collection, providing financial support such as scholarships, creating flexible and alternative learning opportunities, offering social and psychological support, and strengthening cooperation between schools, communities, and government institutions.

For EBPP, the discussions were closely related to the work that has already been carried out in Ban Village for many years. Through community learning and alternative education programs, EBPP continues to support children and teenagers who are unable to access or continue formal education.

This workshop was an important learning experience and strengthened the understanding that education is not only about classrooms, but also about creating opportunities, restoring hope, and helping communities build a better future through education.

By: I Wayan Winata, EBPP Civic Teacher