Dear Readers,
 
The ride-hailing sector offers flexibility that should be welcoming to women. Yet in practice, female drivers remain significantly outnumbered by their male counterparts. This gap reflects very real systemic barriers. SMERU is currently studying the social factors and gender norms behind this phenomenon, while also testing whether role model-based interventions can help pave the way toward a more inclusive digital work ecosystem.
 
In the spirit of National Education Day, I invite you to watch two videos from the RISE Programme in Indonesia research. The first explores teachers’ career trajectories and their link to recruitment systems, while the second highlights various educational innovations across the regions. Though the research were conducted several years ago, their findings remain as relevant as ever.
 
Staying with the theme of expanding opportunity and improving community welfare, I also recommend two readings on care work. The first examines the position of domestic workers within Indonesia’s care economy. The second draws lessons from the “predatory” daycare case to strengthen childcare and child protection systems. Together, these pieces remind us that quality care work is a vital foundation for the wellbeing of families and society at large.
 
Thank you for your continued support. We always welcome your feedback and comments at comms[at]smeru.or.id. Your input helps Nawala SMERU grow and reach greater impact.
 
Widjajanti Isdijoso
Director, The SMERU Research Institute