Learning, Creating, Changing - The Stories of the Children Behind Labewa
In Pegunungan Tengah, Papua, a unique radio program called Labewa provides special entertainment and education for children. This child-friendly segment airs on Tuesdays and Fridays, featuring children as the broadcasters who greet listeners and share interesting and useful information for children and teenagers.
Labewa goes beyond just providing information; it opens up access for children and teenagers in Papua to start aspiring and participating. Initially, children were only involved as broadcasters, but now they also take on the role of program directors (PDs). Previously, this role was facilitated by the RRI and WVI teams, but now the children have taken over.
Seventeen-year-old Sara, who is responsible for scheduling broadcasts and assigning tasks, has learned more about responsibility and reminding her friends about the schedule. She also finds being a leader to be very enjoyable. She works with Alex, another 17-year-old boy, to carry out her role. Alex also echoes Sara's sentiments, adding that he has learned leadership and enjoys arranging schedules for his friends.
Citra, who is tasked as the social media admin, has learned a lot about patience and creativity. She shares that being an admin has taught her to be patient when editing broadcast flyers using an app that requires internet signal, and to be ready to re-edit flyers if the broadcast officers change suddenly, all while dealing with poor signal conditions. Despite the challenges, Citra enjoys the work and finds it creatively fulfilling. She expresses her desire to continue as a social media admin.
As Sara, Alex, and Citra take command of the Labewa program, the relationship between the broadcasters has grown stronger. The children encourage each other in carrying out their tasks. This collaboration not only improves the performance of the broadcast program but also enriches their learning experiences.
Looking ahead, the Labewa broadcast program will be recruiting more young broadcasters. Regeneration is necessary as some broadcasters will continue their education at universities outside Pegunungan Tengah area. The children who have been Labewa broadcasters are enthusiastic about expanding the recruitment to their schools and communities. They are also involved in training and sharing their experiences with new broadcasters. The current broadcasters and PDs are committed to ensuring that the Labewa broadcast continues.
The Labewa broadcast program has brought about changes not only in leadership, responsibility, and creativity among the children but has also strengthened their solidarity and commitment. Labewa serves as an inspiring example of how an activity designed by and for children can bring about real change in society.
Author: Ernita Efatawati Sitorus (Sponsorship Information Officer in Pegunungan Tengah Area Programme)
Editor: Mariana Kurniawati (Communication Executive)
