Digital Literacy and Inclusive Entrepreneurship Training Boosts Independence of Youth with Disabilities in Palembang

Natalia Sihombing S.Pd Rabu, Agustus 05, 2026
Illustration by AI
FORMOSA NEWS

A research team from Stisipol Candradimuka led by Femi Asteriniah implemented an empowerment program for youth with disabilities in Palembang City in 2026. This program highlights the importance of digital literacy and inclusive food product entrepreneurship training to boost the economic independence and social participation of vulnerable groups amidst the challenges of societal stigma.

Persons with disabilities often face structural obstacles in accessing education, employment, and public services due to social stigma and environmental limitations. Particularly for youth with disabilities, limited access to modern skills makes it difficult for them to compete in the job market. Therefore, intervention through digital and economic capacity building is urgently needed to change society's perspective, which often views persons with disabilities merely as objects of charity rather than subjects of development.

This community service program was carried out for two months at the Budi Karsa Physical Disability Social Rehabilitation Center (BRSPDF) in Palembang, involving 50 young participants aged 16 to 30 years. Partnering with the Indonesian Disabled Women's Association (HWDI) Palembang, this activity utilized a participatory approach that included digital literacy seminars, business motivation sessions, practical training in making gluten-free healthy foods (such as gluten-free pempek, healthy sausages, and prebiotic tomato sauce), as well as product branding mentoring.

The results of the activity showed significant positive changes among the participants:

  • Participants' understanding of social media usage and digital marketing increased, as they began to understand how to expand their market through online platforms.
  • Participants acquired new practical skills in processing healthy food products that are hygienic and have high economic value.
  • There was an increase in independent motivation, self-confidence, and effective social communication skills among the participants.

Through this collaborative approach, Femi Asteriniah and the Stisipol Candradimuka team proved that community-based training can open up new economic opportunities for persons with disabilities. As a long-term impact, this program also supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly regarding quality education, decent work, and the reduction of social inequality.

Author Profile

  • Femi Asteriniah, Bambang Suprianto, Nopriawan Mahriadi, Sutinah Dodi Saputra, M. Nugraha Abi Putra – Academics and Researchers from Stisipol Candradimuka, Indonesia, focusing on public administration, collaborative governance, and community empowerment.

Research Source

Natalia Sihombing S.Pd

Diposting oleh Natalia Sihombing S.Pd

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