Jakarta. Philanthropic organization Tanoto Foundation recently inaugurated 176 new recipients for its flagship 2026 TELADAN scholarship program.

The TELADAN leadership scholarship program, short for Transformasi Edukasi untuk Melahirkan Pemimpin Masa Depan (transforming education for future leaders), aims to support the government's efforts in instilling leadership skills in the country's young generation. In the 2026 edition, as many as 176 individuals received the TELADAN Scholarship. The recipients, also known as Tanoto Scholars, had come from the 10 Tanoto Foundation partner universities. They are the University of Indonesia, Bandung Institute of Technology, Gadjah Mada University, Brawijaya University, Diponegoro University, IPB University, Riau University, University of North Sumatra, Hasanuddin University, and Mulawarman University.

These individuals were selected from 9,283 applicants from the said universities through a multi-layered selection process that ran from July to November 2025. Over seven semesters, Tanoto Scholars will be developed into future leaders of Indonesia who possess nine key characteristics: self-awareness, drive, innovation, continuous learning, care for others, empowerment, grit, integrity, and an entrepreneurial spirit.

Deputy Jakarta Governor Rano Karno applauded Tanoto Foundation's efforts to create equal opportunities for the community through education.

"This scholarship is a trust from someone who believes that education can change destiny, even the direction of a nation. One day, when you stand at a crucial juncture in your life, in a meeting room, a classroom, in a village, in a city, or even on this stage, remember today that you once had more opportunities than others. Therefore, be a role model through your attitude and your contribution to the environment," Rano Karno said.

Tanoto Foundation CEO, Benny Lee, added that the TELADAN Program is part of the Tanoto Foundation's long-term commitment to preparing a generation of future Indonesian leaders who are not only academically proficient but also possess character.

“We believe that Indonesia's future leaders must possess integrity, empathy, and the ability to make a real impact on society,” Benny said.

Benny also encouraged Tanoto Scholars to take advantage of this opportunity by making a real contribution to their surrounding communities through the spirit of "pay it forward", which means passing on the benefits they receive to the wider community.

The TELADAN program is designed in three development phases over three and a half years: lead self (semesters two to four), lead others (semesters five to six), and professional preparation (semesters seven to eight). Through these phases, Tanoto Scholars gain various development opportunities, ranging from community service, networking with Tanoto Scholars from across Indonesia, internship experience, personal development at the global level, and career preparation.

Upon graduation, Tanoto Scholars will become part of a cross-national alumni network, a leadership community for continued learning, collaboration, and positive impact.

A 2025 study showed that alumni who received the TELADAN Program were 27% more likely to find employment and 36% more likely to have a higher income than students who did not receive the program. The report also stated that the TELADAN Program doubled the chances of alumni achieving upward social mobility. Some students matched or even surpassed their parents' income levels after just one year of work experience. Employers also highly valued the alumni for their adaptability, leadership, and communication skills.