Organizations:  Nusa Cendana University

Background/Context:

Stunting in children is caused by undernutrition and frequent infections which results in slower growth, cognitive damage, impaired learning and ultimately contributes to long-term challenges within a community. Indonesia was recently recognized by the World Bank for their efforts to decrease country-wide rates of stunting among children under the age of five. East Nusa Tenggara is a predominately Christian region within the Muslim country of Indonesia.  The rate of stunting in the South Central Timor Regency within in East Nusa Tenggara remains particularly high at 22%.  In-depth research can help to understand how religion and cultural factors impact parenting behaviours and practices, and how appropriate interventions can be made by considering the socio-cultural aspects of the community.

Research Question:

1. What are the religious and socio-cultural factors that influence stunting in the East Nusa Tenggara Province? 

Study Aims:

1. Gain an in-depth understanding of the socio-cultural and religious factors influencing the stunting rates in the South Central Timor District.
2. Identify local practices that support or hinder stunting prevention.
3. Develop recommendations to guide culturally sensitive and community-based stunting prevention programs.

Impact:

The results of this study will provide valuable information for policymakers, health practitioners, and communities in designing and implementing effective and sustainable stunting prevention programs in South Central Timor Regency and other areas in East Nusa Tenggara with similar characteristics.

Open Positions:

1 Field Research Assistant – We are looking for an in-person research assistant that can travel to Indonesia in collaboration with Kingdom Workers. (please note project when applying)

Timeline:  July 2025 – June 2025

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