+62 811 1088 854
IL News 020/2014
59th Citizenship Education (Training of Trainers)
Ambon (Maluku), 6-10 October 2014
Ambon manise (Sweet Ambon)! Ambon didn’t get this title for no reason. Who doesn’t know Ambon? The island famous for its fertile soil and abundant spices. The rich marine life has attracted tourists, both from inside and outside the country. The beautiful voices of the people will mesmerize those who listen.
It was in this city that the 59th Citizenship Education Training-of-Trainers held by the Leimena Institute, in partnership with the Maluku Protestant Church (GPM) Synod. The program aimed to help the GPM Synod to prepare their own trainers who can conduct our Citizenship Education program and develop people’s awareness to participate as active citizens in building our nation.
The program was officially opened by the Synod Chairman Rev. Dr. John Ruhulesin. In his remarks, he emphasized the importance of building the awareness of the citizens to participate in our nation building.
Held from October 6 to 10, 2014, it was attended by 26 pastors from several church districts (klasis), such as Ambon City, Masohi, and North Seram. Some of them were lecturers at the Maluku Indonesian Christian University (UKIM).
In this TOT program, in addition to studying the Citizenship Education modules, the participants also practiced teaching the modules in the church’s house group meetings of men, women, and youths. The participants seemed to be very enthusiastic during the practice. Some of them were even surprised to see the eagerness of the women who were generally in senior age, but still very keen to learn about the Responsible Citizens.
Let’s see some responses from the participants:
“For me, the program is very good and useful in helping to become a facilitator. The module is easy to understand and the handbook is very clear, which help in preparing someone to become the Citizenship Education program facilitator.” (Rev. Henky Hetharia, Faculty of Theology UKIM)
“My view on encouraging the role and participation of the church members and society is deepened. I’m more anxious to strengthen the role of the church members in the state and society.” (Rev. Simon Werinussa, GPM “Kota Masohi” church)
“It built my personal awareness that as citizens we need to participate responsibly as member of the Kingdom of God in the history of our nation, especially to do good in the society.” (Rev. Desi Gasperz, Ambon Island church district)