DP World Foundation Marks Groundbreaking of Transformative Educational Institution in Indonesia
A landmark AED 3.7 million junior high school in Belawan, Medan, represents a significant expansion of the Classrooms of Hope initiative, bringing modern educational facilities and opportunity to the local community.
DP World Foundation, the philanthropic arm of DP World, has marked a momentous groundbreaking ceremony for a new junior high school in Belawan, Medan, Indonesia, reaffirming its commitment to expanding access to quality education across the region. The AED 3.7 million project, undertaken in partnership with Belawan New Container Terminal (BNCT), the City Government of Medan and PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero), represents a transformative investment in the educational landscape of the local community.
The sophisticated facility has been meticulously designed to serve students in Grades 7 to 9, featuring twelve classrooms complemented by dedicated science and computer laboratories, a comprehensive library and modern sports facilities. The institution will be powered by a solar energy system, exemplifying a commitment to sustainable educational infrastructure that harmonises environmental stewardship with pedagogical excellence.
The initiative forms part of the broader Tumbuh Bersama programme, which was launched in October 2025 in collaboration between DP World, Pelindo and the City Government of Medan. This comprehensive initiative advances community development through education, healthcare, environmental conservation and economic opportunity, embodying a holistic approach to meaningful social progress.
Latifa Al Qemzi, Director General of DP World Foundation, articulated the philosophical underpinning of this endeavour: “Education is at the heart of our work because we believe that investing in young people is one of the most meaningful ways to strengthen communities. By giving children access to quality education and the opportunity to develop their potential, we are helping them build better futures for themselves and contribute to the communities around them.”
The school represents a landmark achievement for DP World Foundation, constituting its first school construction project in Indonesia and extending the considerable reach of the Classrooms of Hope initiative. Construction is scheduled to commence in 2027, with the anticipated completion timeframe of ten to twelve months positioning the school for operational commencement in 2028. Upon completion, the facility will be formally transferred to the City Government of Medan to operate as a public junior high school, ensuring that this educational institution shall endure as a lasting legacy of collaborative partnership and sustained community investment.
Source: WAM