Press Releases 353 Students Take Part in Character Building and Public Speaking Workshop in East Kutai

East Kutai, East Kalimantan – A total of 353 students from SMP Eka Tjipta Jak Luay 1, SMK 1 Muara Wahau, and SMK 1 Telen in East Kutai, together with teaching staff and student affairs teachers, participated in a three‑day series of Character Building and Public Speaking workshops held in East Kutai. The programme was designed to strengthen character, communication skills, and self‑confidence among young people in rural areas.

Each session was delivered interactively through presentations, group discussions, roleplay, hands‑on practice, and reflection. This approach encouraged students not only to understand the concepts but also to confidently put them into practice in front of an audience. The students were enthusiastic about the workshops as they gained new experiences.

“Thank you to Sinar Mas Agribusiness and Food for organising this event. It has made us more active, and I feel my mindset has changed regarding my surroundings and how to speak properly,” said Bayu, a student from SMK 1 Muara Wahau who joined the programme.

Teachers also expressed their appreciation, noting that the workshops provided useful tips to help students become more self-assured. “In my view, public speaking is very important. We need to socialise with others without fear, embarrassment, or nervousness. Because we rarely speak in front of an audience, students often feel anxious and hesitant. This material is very helpful in boosting their confidence,” explained Sriwati, Deputy Head of Public Relations at SMK 1 Muara Wahau.

For students, the programme enhanced motivation to learn, leadership, and public speaking skills. Teachers received educational modules such as Positive Character Building and Public Speaking for Beginners, which can be integrated into the curriculum. Schools benefited from strengthened teaching capacity on a sustainable basis.

“We are pleased with this programme and hope it continues regularly. It is valuable for sharing information with youth communities. They can gain new knowledge and skills, as well as opportunities to socialise with greater confidence,” said Hendra Oldy Charly Mapasa, Regional Controller of East Kalimantan 2 Plantations, Sinar Mas.

Although challenges such as varying participant abilities and limited practice time were noted, evaluation results showed at least a 20% improvement in conceptual understanding and active student participation in presentations.

This initiative is part of the company’s Collective for Impact commitment to support the empowerment of 20,000 rural youth by 2035. More than 350 students have already benefited directly, reinforcing the company’s role in promoting community‑based youth empowerment.