National Children’s Day, celebrated annually on July 23rd in Indonesia, is a significant moment not just to revel in children’s joy but also to advance efforts in fulfilling and protecting children’s rights. Amidst the rapid evolution of the times, National Children’s Day goes beyond mere ceremonies. It is a call for all stakeholders, including the government, non-governmental organizations, communities, and the younger generation, to deepen their commitment to improving the quality of life and the future of children, the nation’s future bearers.
In the context of National Children’s Day, it is crucial to acknowledge that enhancing children’s quality of life is a long-term process and not an overnight achievement. Maximum efforts from various parties are needed to formulate and implement child-friendly policies. One key figure in this field is Faqih Azhar, a 2022 Communication Science student. Currently, Faqih is the head of KJ21, a student organization focused on social issues at The Faculty of Communication Science. Faqih, along with other KJ21 members, has demonstrated their commitment by managing and initiating programs that positively impact Indonesian children.
As someone dedicated to his role as the head of KJ21 with a focus on social issues, Faqih plays a pivotal role in managing and developing various programs aimed at enhancing the quality of life for children in Indonesia. Under his leadership, KJ21 designed and executed numerous programs and activities for children, including activities with their mentees.
Faqih shares his experiences with KJ21 members by actively organizing activities with their mentees. Through these activities, Faqih directly supports the educational needs of the mentees and organizes fun events. In these activities, Faqih and other KJ21 members interact with the mentees, creating joy for all participants. The mentees also frequently share stories and consult on school assignments with their KJ21 mentors.
“Love Visits” is one of the activities carried out by Faqih and his KJ21 team. In this activity, the KJ21 team visits the homes of each mentee to meet their families. This initiative aims to build close relationships with the mentees’ families and ensure their school preparation needs are met. This activity leaves a lasting impression on the KJ21 mentors as they navigate the challenges of difficult home access. The Love Visits become moments of gratitude and heightened motivation for the mentors to guide and equip their mentees to become remarkable individuals in the future.
Building relationships, designing activities, and improving communication with children aged 6-15 is no easy feat. The KJ21 mentors must actively foster communication channels that help them bond with their mentees. Establishing familiarity and warmth is essential for the mentees to feel comfortable interacting with their KJ21 mentors.
Faqih also shares his impressions of being the KJ21 leader. For him, each activity brings unique experiences. It is touching to be involved in helping children and addressing their educational challenges. Together with the KJ21 team, he remains enthusiastic about providing the best moral and material support they can offer. As KJ21 leader and mentor, Faqih constantly encourages and motivates his mentees to aim high and become outstanding individuals in the future. His message to the KJ21 mentees is to study diligently and stay enthusiastic about becoming great people who make their families proud.
With a deep focus on social issues, the involvement of Faqih and the KJ21 group in creating a better environment for children embodies the spirit of National Children’s Day itself. (Ed)