Medan, Indonesia – September 3, 2025 – As part of its ongoing commitment to academic excellence and social responsibility, the Master’s Program in English Education (MTBI) at the Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training, UIN Sumatera Utara, successfully completed a five-day community service program at Panti Asuhan An-Nur, Medan, from August 15 to 19, 2025.
This initiative was spearheaded by a dedicated group of MTBI students from the Class of 2023, namely Asmawati, Ari Gusti Sundari, and Melisa Khoyyiroh Harahap, under the direct supervision of Maslathif Dwi Purnomo, PhD., Head of the Master’s Program in English Education, and Reflina, M.Pd., Secretary of the Program.
The program was designed as a holistic educational engagement, blending English language teaching, Quranic recitation, Islamic prayer activities, creative skills workshops, educational games, and life skills development. The activities culminated in a closing ceremony with the handover of gifts, a trophy, and certificates of appreciation to the orphanage and the participating children.
The first day began with a warm welcome at Panti Asuhan An-Nur, where the MTBI team introduced the objectives of the program and met the children who would take part in the activities. The session kicked off with basic English conversation classes, where students introduced vocabulary through interactive games.
“Our goal is to make learning English enjoyable and accessible for the children,” said Dr. Maslathif Dwi Purnomo during his opening remarks. “Education should be a tool for empowerment, not intimidation. Through this program, we hope to plant seeds of confidence and curiosity in every child.”
The children responded enthusiastically, participating actively and showing great eagerness to learn.
Beyond language learning, the program placed strong emphasis on Islamic values and spiritual growth. Daily sessions included Quranic recitation practices and guided prayer activities, reinforcing the importance of faith as the foundation of personal and social development.
Reflina, M.Pd., highlighted the significance of balancing intellectual and spiritual education:
“True education is holistic—it nurtures the mind, heart, and soul. By combining English teaching with Quranic values, we help these children grow into individuals who are knowledgeable, ethical, and compassionate.”
The integration of religious activities also fostered a sense of discipline, gratitude, and moral responsibility among the children.
One of the program’s most memorable aspects was the creative skills workshop, which included art activities, storytelling, and role-playing exercises. The children explored their creativity by making simple crafts and sharing imaginative stories in English. These sessions were designed to enhance critical thinking, communication, and self-expression, essential skills for lifelong learning.
Educational games such as word puzzles, English bingo, and group challenges kept the sessions lively and engaging, reinforcing lessons in a fun and interactive manner.
“We believe that learning does not have to be rigid or monotonous,” said Dr. Maslathif. “When children enjoy the process, they retain more knowledge and develop a genuine love for learning.”
Throughout the five-day program, MTBI students worked tirelessly to create a supportive and inspiring environment. They not only taught but also listened to the children’s stories, shared motivational talks, and offered guidance on everyday life challenges.
Asmawati, one of the student volunteers, reflected on the experience:
“Teaching here was eye-opening. These children have so much potential, and being part of their journey, even for a short time, is deeply rewarding.”
Similarly, Ari Gusti Sundari and Melisa Khoyyiroh Harahap expressed gratitude for the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge to real-life situations, reinforcing their sense of purpose as future educators.
The program concluded with a closing ceremony attended by the orphanage management, children, and MTBI representatives. During the event, gifts and educational supplies were handed over to the orphanage, along with a trophy and certificates of appreciation for the participants.
In his closing speech, Dr. Maslathif Dwi Purnomo commended the students for their dedication and the orphanage for its warm cooperation:
“Community service is not just an academic requirement—it is a moral responsibility. Through programs like this, we hope to make education a force for good, touching lives and creating opportunities for all.”
The Chairman of Panti Asuhan An-Nur expressed heartfelt appreciation for MTBI’s efforts:
“These activities bring joy and knowledge to our children. More importantly, they show that there are people who care. We thank MTBI for their dedication and hope this partnership continues in the future.”
This initiative is part of MTBI’s broader mission to integrate academic learning with community engagement, ensuring that students develop not only intellectual competence but also social awareness, empathy, and leadership skills.
“As educators, we must look beyond the classroom,” Dr. Maslathif emphasized. “The real measure of education is its impact on society. We will continue to support programs that connect knowledge with compassion.”
By combining education, creativity, faith, and life skills, this program has left a lasting impression on the children of Panti Asuhan An-Nur and reaffirmed MTBI’s commitment to shaping educators who serve with both expertise and empathy.
