Interactions of Factors Related to the Stunting Reduction Program in Indonesia: A Case Study in Ende District.

Previous stunting-related studies focus more on causes or determinants of stunting. Little is known about factors contributing to the success of stunting reduction programs. This study aims to fill those gaps using a case study from Ende District, Province of Nusa Tenggara Timur, Indonesia. A group model-building workshop with stunting-related stakeholders was conducted in November 2021. The system dynamic approach in the form of a causal loop diagram was used. Five variables related to the stunting reduction program were included in the analysis: the budget for the stunting reduction program; stunting-related stakeholder's cooperation and coordination; sufficient water supply; the ability of the related stakeholders to execute the program; and water, sanitation, and hygiene-related behavior. We found that the budget for the program and the cooperation and coordination between stakeholders were the most influential variables in the system. The feedback loop between these 2 variables was also the most prominent in the system, suggesting that sufficient funding and strong collaboration between stakeholders could lead to successful stunting reduction programs. Finally, this study implies that the stunting reduction programs in developing countries should be seen holistically and improvement should be conducted in all aspects, including financial, institutional, environmental, technical, and social.

Teachers voices on school reopening in Indonesia during COVID-19 pandemic.

The COVID-19 situation and school closure has brought intense impact to millions of students and teachers. However, there is a growing pressure from parents, teachers, and children for schools to reopen and the national government has developed guidelines if schools going to reopen. This study is conducted to assess the perspective of teachers and other education personnel regarding the current situation and the outlook when schools reopen in the future. A combination of survey, focus group discussions, and interviews were conducted among school personnel (i.e. teachers, school administrator, and school principals), local education office officials, and representatives from teacher's professional associations in Indonesia. A total of 27,046 school personnel participated in the survey, making it one of the largest surveys ever conducted with school personnel in Indonesia. In addition, 53 participants were involved in the FGDs and interviews in 5 areas. Findings suggest that 76% teachers were concerned if schools reopen due to the health risks and 95% teachers preferred having a blended learning or continue using full distance learning. Nevertheless, if schools reopen, teachers expressed the needs for greater health protection among teachers and children, strengthened coordination and collaboration with local stakeholders, and further capacity strengthening to ensure that the learning process can be safe, comfortable, and effective. Specific analysis on the perspective and needs for teachers working with special needs learners and disadvantaged areas are further analysed.