As the school year progresses, students across Indonesia are gearing up for various competitions that showcase their talents and skills. Among these events, the Pekan Olahraga dan Seni (PORSENI) stands out as a highly anticipated occasion, especially for students at the Madrasah Tsanawiyah (MTs) level. This year, MTs KH Hasyim Asyari is particularly excited about its participation, with students eager to demonstrate their abilities in various fields, including the Indonesian language speech competition.
On January 16, 2025, two teaching assistant students from UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang had the opportunity to support Qismikha, a talented student selected to represent her school in the Bahasa Indonesia speech competition. Nur Lailatul Rahmah, a Mathematics Education student, and Naufal Fikri Mutamam, studying Social Sciences Education, collaborated to provide guidance and mentorship to Qismikha during this critical preparation period.
The assistance took place in the school library, a quiet and conducive environment for practice, particularly during break times when students could focus without distractions. The training sessions were designed not only to help Qismikha memorize her speech but also to enhance her delivery through improved intonation, articulation, and facial expressions. Most importantly, the mentors emphasized the development of Qismikha's confidence, a crucial element for anyone speaking in public.
Despite their backgrounds not being in language, both Nur and Naufal were driven by a passion for supporting student potential. They believed that public speaking is a skill that can be nurtured rather than an innate talent. "We aimed to create a relaxed yet focused atmosphere, allowing Qismikha to express her thoughts comfortably," said Nur. As the weeks progressed, they witnessed significant improvements in Qismikha's performance, transforming from a timid speaker to one who projected her voice with confidence and clarity.
The PORSENI competition is set to take place on February 19, 2025, and the limited preparation time has motivated the mentors and Qismikha to maximize their training sessions. The supportive environment provided by the school's teachers, combined with Qismikha's eagerness to learn, has been pivotal in her development. "Although our mentorship lasted only a few weeks, the values of courage, confidence, and the spirit of learning will last much longer," Naufal remarked.
As they reflect on the experience, both Nur and Naufal express gratitude to the entire MTs KH Hasyim Asyari community for the trust placed in them as teaching assistants. They also commend Qismikha for her dedication and cooperative spirit throughout the training process. This initiative not only highlights the importance of mentorship in education but also underscores the role of student-led events in fostering personal growth and community involvement.
Meanwhile, the excitement extends beyond the speech competition. The school is also preparing for various other activities as part of the PORSENI, which serves as a platform for students to showcase their talents in sports, arts, and culture. This multifaceted event allows students from different backgrounds to come together, fostering camaraderie and school spirit.
In addition to the speech competition, students are encouraged to participate in diverse activities, such as sports events, artistic performances, and cultural exhibitions. These events are not only vital for individual expression but also serve to strengthen community ties among students, teachers, and parents alike.
As the date approaches, anticipation builds within the school community. Students are busy rehearsing their performances, fine-tuning their skills, and supporting one another in preparation for the big day. The PORSENI is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of student achievement and a testament to the hard work and dedication of both students and educators.
Furthermore, the PORSENI highlights the importance of character education, which is increasingly being integrated into the curriculum. This approach aims to instill values such as teamwork, respect, and resilience in students, preparing them not only for academic success but also for life beyond school.
As Qismikha and her peers prepare to take the stage, they embody the spirit of the PORSENI: a commitment to excellence, a passion for learning, and a desire to contribute positively to their community. The support from their mentors and teachers plays a crucial role in this journey, reinforcing the idea that education is about collaboration and shared experiences.
In conclusion, the PORSENI at MTs KH Hasyim Asyari is shaping up to be an exciting event that celebrates student talents while fostering a sense of community. The hard work and dedication of students like Qismikha, supported by their mentors, exemplify the positive impact of educational initiatives that prioritize both academic achievement and character development. As the competition day approaches, the entire school community stands united, ready to cheer on their representatives and celebrate the diverse talents of their students.
