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| PGSD UMM students are going down to victims affected by a disaster in one of the areas in Lombok. (Photo: Special) |
The existence of sophisticated information and communication technology today offers a great potential for networking among universities. This is very helpful to equalize the quality of education in Indonesia, especially in the ability of science, technology (science and technology) and innovation.
One of the efforts is Directorate General of Learning and Student Affairs of Republic of Indonesia Ministry of Research and Technology through the Indonesian Online Learning System (SPADA) program in 2018. The Ministry entrusts this program to Elementay School Teacher Education (PGSD) Department University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM).
The program involved 15 students who had joint student exchange to Hamzanwadi University, North Lombok. They would undergo this program in one semester through face to face and online. According to Erna Yayuk, S.Pd, M.Pd as the head of PGSD Department UMM, the expected result is to increase national insight in terms of cultural exchanges, especially in the lecture system.
"Students as the agents of change must be able to live in the midst of an all-technology society. Then, judging from the breadth of Indonesia, it will certainly bring different cultures. Therefore, this program aims to broaden nationalism and increase tolerance for students," Erna explained when was interviewed on Thursday (1/11).
PGSD Department showed its distinctive character in learning the inclusion of its special needs children for students from Lombok. In addition to the typical recognition of the lecture system, the activity also introduced a foundation for elementary school education belonging to UMM as well as batik learning. This program, continued Erna, was introduced on the basis of applying the vision of Muhammadiyah for the nation.
In contrast, PGSD Department UMM also sent 15 students to take part in a similar program at Hamzanwadi University. There was not only learning about the university's learning culture, but also directly involved in the disaster-affected areas in Lombok, precisely the Sambelia area. Students were invited to participate in providing trauma healing or trauma recovery in elementary schools and distributing basic necessities to disaster victims.
"Perhaps, a lot of people can't come and see the condition of our brother in Lombok directly. In my opinion, this is a good moment when I can share my feelings and happiness directly with victims," said Elys Sulistyowati, one of the students who provided trauma healing activities for disaster victims of elementary school students in Lombok. (*)
