On December 17, 2025, the International Symposium on Early Childhood Education and Development (ECED) was held at Thamrin Nine Ballroom, Central Jakarta, with the theme “ECED Ecosystem Synergy in Promoting the Best Start in Life.” The symposium convened leading thinkers, policymakers, and practitioners to translate the vision of early childhood development into concrete action, recognizing that the earliest years do not merely influence growth but determine the trajectory of a nation’s future human capital. Prof. Dr. Fasli Jalal, Ph.D., SpGK, serving as Rector of Universitas YARSI and Chair of the ECED Council Indonesia, appeared as a key panelist in Panel 2 titled “Strengthening ECED Ecosystems Through National and Regional Leadership.” In this session, Prof. Fasli Jalal presented the ECED Council Indonesia’s strategy as a catalyst to strengthen synergy within the ECED ecosystem, explaining how the Council plays a central role in orchestrating system-level synergy through the National Action Plan for Holistic-Integrative ECED (RAN PAUD-HI) 2025-2029 and ensuring its alignment with the national RPJMN 2025-2029 targets. As the culmination of his contribution, Prof. Fasli Jalal participated in launching a book on strengthening Holistic-Integrative ECED in Indonesia, presenting evidence-based strategic recommendations for policy and practice, connecting insights directly to national priorities, and offering a roadmap for educators and advocates to elevate professional standards and ensure early investment translates into long-term economic productivity.
This comprehensive disaster relief initiative directly supports Sustainable Development Goal 11 on Sustainable Cities and Communities. By providing immediate humanitarian assistance through multiple channels, Universitas YARSI helps mitigate the impact of disasters on affected populations, supporting their recovery and resilience. The initiative strongly aligns with SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals, as demonstrated through effective multi-sector collaboration between the academic institution, postal services, and local government, showcasing how diverse partnerships can enhance disaster response efficiency, reach, and impact. Furthermore, this activity supports SDG 1 on No Poverty and SDG 2 on Zero Hunger by addressing the immediate needs of disaster victims who often face food insecurity and economic hardship in the aftermath of catastrophic events. The Rector’s direct field visit exemplifies SDG 16 on Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions by demonstrating institutional accountability, transparent leadership, and responsive governance. Through this humanitarian response combining logistical efficiency with leadership presence, Universitas YARSI embodies the principle that universities serve not only as centers of learning and research but also as agents of social change and community support, contributing to building more resilient communities capable of recovering from disasters and reducing vulnerability to future hazards, ultimately advancing Indonesia’s commitment to protecting all citizens and ensuring no one is left behind in times of crisis.
