That afternoon, Noni Cantika Wiguna was busy teaching Quran to the elementary children of Daarul Haq Madani Indonesia Foundation in Soreang, Bandung.
Occasionally, she reminded the students to correct their Quranic recitation. She also politely reprimanded those who were chitchatting with their friends.
That was Noni’s daily routine. As the daughter of Ika (38) and Sarman Uju (43), she taught Quranic lessons every day after returning from her school at Soreang State High School 1.
Noni shared that she often stayed overnight at the foundation’s dormitory and didn’t return to her place in Ciluncat, Cangkuang, Soreang.
“There are around 15 children who study Quran with me,” Noni said.
Although her income from teaching Quranic lessons was little, Noni persevered in her commitment. Her priority was always to study. As a result, Noni consistently ranked in the top 5 in her school from grades 1 to 3.
Noni’s mother, Ika, also mentioned that her eldest daughter was diligent and responsible with her studies. Noni could manage her time well despite her busy schedule.
“She’s responsible for her actions,” Ika said.
Ika and Sarman acknowledged their daily life was modest, but they still hoped their two children could pursue higher education. As the eldest child, Noni also had a younger brother in the 5th grade of elementary school.
Ika’s daily routine involved selling household necessities from her home. She also occasionally helps with her neighbor’s catering if there is an order.
Meanwhile, Noni’s father, Sarman, worked outside the city. Sometimes, he worked as a construction worker, and other times, he assisted his friend with sewing.
“That’s where our income comes from. Sometimes, my husband works at construction sites, and sometimes he sews. It is uncertain when he will come home,” Ika explained.
Due to the unpredictable nature of Sarman’s work, their monthly income varied. On average, he earned around 1 million rupiahs. Despite the circumstances, they were grateful that Noni attended public schools from elementary to high school, which provided free education.
Therefore, they were overjoyed when they found out that Noni was accepted to UGM with a fully subsidized tuition fee for the General Surveying and Mapping Technology Program at the Vocational College through the academic excellence-based entrance selection (SNBP).
Noni is a candidate for the Kartu Indonesia Pintar (KIP) assistance from the government.
“It was a mix of emotions. We were happy but also nervous because our daughter would be far from her parents. But I believe UGM is a good university,” added Ika.
Noni also viewed UGM as the best campus, and Yogyakarta was a student city, strengthening her determination to study diligently.
“I will study hard,” Noni firmly stated.
Author: Satria
Photographer: Donnie