Building Future-Ready Learners: UPH and Singapore Polytechnic’s LeX Program in Support of Vocational Lifelong Learning

TANGERANG, 2023 – During the 2023–2024 academic year, Universitas Pelita Harapan (UPH) in collaboration with Singapore Polytechnic (SP) successfully implemented the Learning Express (LeX) Program three times. The LeX Program is a 12-day social innovation project that applies the design thinking methodology to equip students with critical and creative skills for solving real-world challenges. Each program involved 30 students and three lecturers from SP, working alongside 30 students and faculty members from various UPH faculties, including Science and Technology (FaST), Design (FD), Hospitality and Tourism (FHospar), and Social and Political Sciences (FISIP). 

Throughout the year, participants engaged directly with local communities and small enterprises in Tangerang and South Tangerang, including a tofu production center, a youth-led agro initiative, and an eco-tourism village. By immersing themselves in daily community activities, students gained insights into the challenges faced by local businesses and collaborated to design innovative solutions. Project outcomes included the development of tools to improve food production efficiency, starter kits and workshops to encourage youth involvement in vineyard cultivation, and campaign strategies to strengthen eco-tourism potential. Each cycle concluded with a Gallery Walk exhibition at UPH Lippo Village Campus, where students presented their prototypes and findings to faculty, peers, and community stakeholders. 

The LeX Program had a tangible impact on both participants and local partners. Students enhanced vocational and lifelong learning skills such as teamwork, leadership, intercultural communication, and applied problem-solving, while community partners benefited from practical, low-cost innovations to support their economic activities. At the same time, the program strengthened institutional collaboration between UPH and SP, demonstrating the value of cross-border and multidisciplinary partnerships in addressing societal challenges. By offering practice-oriented education, fostering cross-cultural exchange, and equipping students with transferable skills for their future careers, the LeX Program exemplifies UPH’s commitment to nurturing graduates who are competent, innovative, and able to make a positive impact on society locally, regionally, and globally.