Family to Support Child Protection in Village

Umbu (15), known as Uman, child representative of Wahana Visi Indonesia (WVI) in the Sumba Timur Area Program has known WVI since he was in grade 1 of elementary school (SD). His experience in activities with WVI has brought Uman to grow into an active person. Not only Uman, WVI programs in the area where Uman lives also encourage his parents to be involved in supporting child protection in the village.

Rambu Ana (40), Umbu's mother has even known WVI since 2005. She said that initially, it was her husband who regularly attended meetings with WVI, which later made her one of the Child Protection Cadres. Meanwhile, Rambu is actively assisting the children and being a Sunday school teacher.

The two activities turned out to have an effect on Umbu's activities with WVI. Thanks to the support of Rambu and her husband, Uman participated in various competitions, Na Anamu children's forum activities, and jamborees, and went to Musrenbangdes (Village Development Planning Deliberation) in 6th grade.

“(At that time) We suggested the village give a keyboard for the children's forum because there was Na Anamu Voice. Lots of other friends. Also, we hold monthly meetings and discussions. We learned how to speak in front of people, because (here) the culture is that children are told to be quiet,” said Uman, sharing his experience with WVI.

Rambu added that Uman grew up to be a brave child after doing activities with WVI and his friends. Initially, Uman was a very shy child.

Rambu also saw significant changes in the community in his village. According to him, the practice of child abuse is decreasing. Parents who used to "abandon" their children's education only up to elementary school have now changed.

“But with the WVI approach now, there are no more children left behind, even now they are about to go to college. Parents are more open to education," she said.

Not only that, but changes also occurred in his family. Now his family is increasingly able to distinguish between good and bad. In addition, Rambu and her husband can also be more patient in dealing with children.

“My mother used to talk a lot and if there was an assignment, she would refuse. When partnering with WVI, like it or not, you have to talk. Dare to reveal the situation in the village. Mama became brave and has been on the Village Management Board for 3 periods. In the family, because the father is a servant, the family must be an example so that they can influence others. I feel that it all starts at home,” she said.

Rambu hopes that even though WVI has completed its service in the East Sumba area, what WVI teaches the community can still be practiced. He is also committed to being able to continue the programs that are already running.

"The hope for the children of East Sumba is when WVI no longer exists the children must still be enthusiastic, continue to be active," she concluded.

Written by: Putri ianne Barus & Gracia Thomas, Communications Wahana Visi Indonesia