apple expands developer academy network with new bali location
Apple has recently announced the inauguration of its fourth Apple Developer Academy in Bali, Indonesia. This marks a significant expansion in its efforts to enhance opportunities for developers, students, and entrepreneurs in the region's burgeoning iOS app economy.
The new academy in Bali adds to the existing ones in Jakarta, Surabaya, and Batam, which have been operational since the first academy opened in Jakarta in 2018.
Impact and Growth of Apple Developer Academies in Indonesia
The establishment of these academies has catalyzed a surge in local talent development, with over 2,000 graduates having completed the program to date. Remarkably, 90% of these alumni have found employment across various sectors, including education, e-commerce, transportation, and sustainability.
Apple CEO Tim Cook has highlighted the profound influence of technology and coding on shaping futures.
We’ve seen many times over that a line of code can change the world — and in Indonesia, we’re investing in the creativity and skills of people determined to prove it,” said Cook. “We’re excited by the growing developer community in Indonesia, and we look forward to investing in the success of even more coders with our fourth academy in the country.”
The Bali Academy's nine-month program encompasses a wide range of subjects, from the basics of coding to intricate aspects of design, marketing, and project management. This comprehensive approach equips students with the necessary skills to excel as entrepreneurs and developers, preparing them to contribute effectively to the global tech landscape.
The inclusive nature of the Bali Academy is particularly noteworthy. It is set to accept applicants from all over the globe, irrespective of their educational backgrounds or previous coding experience. This initiative aims to foster a melting pot of cultures and ideas, enriching the learning experience and promoting a broader app development and entrepreneurship perspective.
A Platform for Innovation and Diversity
The demographic diversity of the academy's cohorts has been a pivotal aspect of its success. Students range from 18 to 50 years old and come from over 90 cities across Indonesia. Each student brings unique life experiences and perspectives, enhancing the creativity and applicability of the projects developed within the academy. This diversity fuels innovation and ensures that the apps and technologies developed reflect various needs and contexts.
The academy's curriculum is based on Apple's Challenge-Based Learning model, which encourages students to tackle real-world problems through technology. This approach has facilitated the creation of impactful projects like PetaNetra, Indonesia's first indoor navigation app designed to assist blind and low-vision users. Developed by academy alumni, this app uses augmented reality to map out safe and efficient navigation paths inside buildings, showcasing the practical and societal benefits of the skills gained at the academy.
Alumni of the Apple Developer Academies have started successful startups and joined established companies, bringing their skills to enhance digital products and services across the region. For instance, alumni lead the iOS development team at Bank Mandiri, Indonesia's largest bank, where they are pivotal in advancing mobile banking technologies.
The opening of the fourth Apple Developer Academy in Bali is a testament to Apple's commitment to fostering technological skills and innovation in Indonesia. By providing a robust educational framework and fostering an environment of diversity and inclusion, the academy is setting up its students for success in the global tech arena.