Hemalia Kusumadewi, an International Relations student at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Brawijaya (FISIP UB) who is a member of Students Build Villages (MMD) 2024 group70 , initiated the Dream Class program for teenagers in Wongsorejo Village, Wongsorejo District, Banyuwangi Regency.
This program aims to prevent early marriage which is a serious problem in the village. Based on data from the Banyuwangi Regency Religious Affairs Office (KUA), there were 27 cases of early marriage recorded in July 2024 in this village.
Dream Class was held in three Junior High Schools (SMP) in Wongsorejo Village, namely SMPN 1 Wongsorejo on Thursday, (18/07/2024), MTs Islamiyah, Friday (19/07/2024), and MTs Bustanul Ulum, Saturday (20/07/2024).
This program is intended for students in grades 2 and 3 with a focus on self-development, understanding the importance of education, reproductive health, and the negative impacts of early marriage.
“We provide an understanding to teenagers that education is the key to a better future and encourage them to plan their education to a higher level. In addition, through group discussions and presentations, participants are invited to understand the negative impacts of early marriage and the importance of maintaining reproductive health. Our team also invites teenagers to explore their interests and talents and plan steps to achieve their life goals,” explained Hemalia.
The student of 2021 batch said that the Dream Class Program received a positive response from the participants who showed enthusiasm and motivation to continue learning and achieving their dreams. Support from the school and village government also contributed to the success of this program.
“I really hope that in the future this program can have a positive impact in reducing the number of early marriages in Wongsorejo Village and inspire teenagers to dare to dream and pursue a brighter future,” said Hemalia. [Hilya/Irene/ UB PR/ Trans. Iir]
