The G20 T20 Multidimensional Poverty Alleviation Summer Program, a collaboration between the Universitas Indonesia ‘s Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB UI) and Oxford University’s Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI), officially closed on Friday (12/8). The closing of this program was held at Universitas Indonesia (UI) Makara Art Center in the form of an art event entitled “A Glimpse of Indonesian Diversity: Reflection From The Arts and Culture to Support Indonesia’s G20 Presidency”.
The event featured various forms of performing arts, ranging from traditional dance to classical piano playing. In addition, the event also showcased several traditional handicrafts and traditional fabrics from various regions, such as bead cloth, woven cloth, hammer cloth, and various types of batik.
The Dean of FEB UI, Teguh Dartanto, Ph.D., expressed his gratitude to all parties involved so that the program, which was held online and offline for two weeks, could run smoothly. There were many challenges before and during the program, such as some instructors and participants being confirmed positive for Covid-19, visa issues, and other issues. However, with a strong spirit of cooperation and mutual understanding and help, all these challenges and obstacles were overcome so that the participants could gather in the forum.
“The theme of this event is quite in line with the topic of the Summer School Program. In the Summer School Program, the discussion focuses on the problem of multidimensional poverty which requires us to see diversity in poverty measurement that considers many aspects of humanity. Meanwhile, this cultural and art event is also our commitment to appreciate diversity in Indonesia,” Teguh said.
According to Oxford University OPHI Director Professor Sabina Alkire, in 2015 leaders from 193 countries committed to achieving 17 Sustainable Development Goals in the next 15 years, including ending poverty in all its forms. When considering poverty eradication as the first SDG, what can be daunting is the post-pandemic situation with the climate crisis, rising food prices, and fuel prices that could lead to a global recession.
“People from all walks of life can easily turn their backs on that goal. However, the leadership of Prof. Bambang Brodjonegoro and Pak Teguh can organize this program as a side event that contributes to reducing poverty in all its forms,” said Prof. Sabina.
Prof. Sabina also appreciated all parties who worked hard in the Summer School Program. He hopes that the next G20 and T20 activities can support the creation of a world free from poverty, through various skills, whether through music, songs, speeches, or seminars. “For two weeks we had the privilege to hold a Summer School on multidimensional measurement and analysis of poverty with more than 82 participants from 29 countries,” said Prof. Sabina.
