Meet Putri, a determined young woman studying in her final year as a vocational school graduate. She is eager to learn and work in the digital infrastructure space in Indonesia, yet her access to theoretical and practical knowledge is extremely limited. Even accessing courses in digital infrastructure is a challenge due to the lack of such courses, both digitally and physically, in the local language. Opportunities in the digital world seem increasingly out of reach for Putri and her peers.

This story is heard repeatedly.

Putri is not a single case but represents millions of young people in similar marginalised areas in Indonesia. They have great potential, but without proper educational support and adequate access, their dreams feel distant.

Why standard tech misses the mark and what startups can learn

When we initially used conventional digital learning platforms, we found a major problem: most online education solutions are not designed to consider the specific context and needs of communities like Putri’s. They require relatively expensive appliances, stable connectivity, and content that is not always relevant to local conditions.

Many ultimately gave up because they felt the technology was ‘not suitable’ or that they were ‘disconnected’ from the tech world, not due to lack of interest or capability. We realised that without addressing these basic needs and practical barriers, technology would never become a true bridge to meaningful change.

Building a digital community: The design that made a difference

When I founded Nusantara Academy, I decided to start by building a strong digital community as the foundational digital infrastructure of Indonesia. This strategic step is essential because having technological infrastructure is a prerequisite for digital education to spread evenly.

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The team then designed a program combining technical training in data centre technology with building an inclusive network community involving various social layers—including local industry practitioners and marginalised groups. The focus on mentoring, coaching, and practical guidance created a vibrant and supportive learning environment.

What made it work was the local and personal approach: we listened directly to community needs, tailored the material to their real conditions, and paid attention to social and cultural barriers often overlooked by standard tech tools.

At Nusantara Academy, inclusion is a core value — empowering women and underserved groups to lead, while expanding digital training to marginalised regions. By building capacity and providing locally adapted programs, the academy drives social impact, narrows gender gaps, and fosters resilient communities.

We believes true change comes from inclusive education that equips forgotten groups with the right tools and support. By using technology smartly and empathetically, education can drive equitable economic and social growth for all.

Reflection and a challenge for the future: Building technology for all

Building Nusantara Academy has taught me that technology and education must be designed not only for those who are ‘ready’ but also for those who are still struggling to ‘get ready’.

The focus must be on empowerment, not exclusion. I constantly ask myself: How can we ensure digital technology is not just for certain privileged groups? How do we realise real inclusion so that every young Indonesian has equal opportunity facing the future?

Also Read: The digital classroom: How edutech is sculpting the minds of tomorrow

As a founder, I urge startup communities to rethink their definition of product-market fit. Instead of optimising for the loudest segment, challenge yourself: Does your solution empower the “Putris” of the world? Are you brave enough to go beyond convenience and design for true accessibility, relevance, and impact?

Building tech for all goes deeper than metrics. It requires empathy, patience, and relentless iteration. But when we do, the change isn’t temporary. It’s transformative, rippling through families, communities, and the next generation of founders.

Nusantara Academy’s journey is proof: Lasting impact comes from building for those who need it most.

As you embark on your startup’s next chapter, ask yourself this question: Are you designing for real inclusion, or for the already served?

I have the utmost conviction that the future belongs to those bold enough to include everyone. That’s a journey worth taking.

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