Dr. Yudhiakto Pramudya is an Assistant Professor of Physics Education at the Universitas Ahmad Dahlan in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. He holds a doctorate degree in Physics from Wesleyan University. He is also certified in the Incident Command System (ICS) in Connecticut, and that involvement with ICS has given him a profound understanding of disaster management.

Yudhiakto's research in physics and astronomy focuses on creating accessible learning media for deaf and blind students. He is a leader in the field of inclusivity and innovative education. Widely recognized for his contributions to science education for disabilities, he was named one of the 70 inspiring and influential individuals by the Forum of Scientist Teenagers in Indonesia in 2021.

IVLP Impact Award Project: Animation Workshop utilizing SCRATCH Programming Software for Deaf Students on the Topic of Disaster Preparedness

The project empowers deaf students in Sleman and Bantul through an Animation Workshop utilizing SCRATCH programming software. It focuses on the critical theme of disaster preparedness (tsunami, earthquake, and volcano eruption). Over a four-month period, intensive training sessions will equip participants from four special schools with animation skills. Participants will create five animation videos addressing various aspects of disaster response and resilience, especially for deaf people. To foster creativity and collaboration, a Hackathon will be organized to provide a competitive platform for participants. With the backing of local government and university support, coupled with extensive media coverage, the project seeks to not only amplify the voices of deaf individuals but also foster community engagement and awareness on vital disaster-related issues.

In September, Yudhiakto formed his mentorship team to provide personalized and intensive guidance to students and facilitate classroom activities. He is also drafting SCRATCH coding to teach students about earthquake and volcanic eruption scenarios. He expanded his project scope to include five schools: two specializing in deaf education and three accommodating students with variuos disabilities.

As a result of his IVLP Impact Award project, Dr. Pramudya received recognition from The National Research and Innovation Agency and will lead a discussion on inclusive education.

“Deaf students can excel in programming for disaster mitigation. Individuals with disabilities deserve opportunities for fulfilling careers in STEM.” - Dr. Yudhiakto Pramudya

IVLP Exchange Experience

Yudhiakto participated in the IVLP Project Workforce Development for People with Disabilities, organized by the U.S. Department of State and Meridian International Center, in partnership with International House, Global Ties Detroit, and World Affairs Council of Seattle.

Yudhiakto’s exchange experience led to the development of his project: “I gained valuable insights into inclusive education and technology solutions for individuals with disabilities. These experiences underscored the importance of leveraging innovative approaches, such as SCRATCH programming software, to empower marginalized communities, including the deaf population. By integrating lessons learned from the IVLP program, along with best practices gleaned from the Do-It Pals initiative and insights from Microsoft professionals, our project aims to effectively address the unique needs of deaf students in Sleman and Bantul, fostering greater participation and success in STEM education and beyond.”

“My experience in the IVLP, particularly through the Do-It Pals program at the University of Washington in Seattle and insights from professionals, inspired my IVLP Impact Award Project. Discussions with the National Science Foundation in Washington, D.C. gave me the idea to create a project focused on science for disabilities, empowering deaf students in Sleman and Bantul to succeed in STEM education especially in disaster mitigation.” - Dr. Yudhiakto Pramudya

U.S. Communities Visited 

Washington, DC; Charlotte, NC; Detroit, MI; Seattle, WA

Country: Indonesia

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