Lolayan, Bolaang Mongondow – On August 10, 2024, the English Education Study Program of IAIN Manado conducted a community service initiative aimed at providing training for teachers on the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum in English language education at the elementary level. This program took place in the Lolayan sub-district, focusing on empowering local educators with effective teaching strategies.

The Merdeka Curriculum emphasizes student-centered learning, allowing teachers to tailor their lessons to the diverse needs of their students. During the event, faculty members from IAIN Manado engaged teachers in interactive workshops, covering various teaching methods, assessment strategies, and practical applications of the curriculum in English language instruction.

“This initiative is designed to equip teachers with the tools and knowledge necessary to effectively implement the Merdeka Curriculum in their classrooms,” said Nur Halimah,M.Hum, a leading faculty member involved in the program. “By enhancing their teaching skills, we aim to improve the quality of English education for elementary students in this region.”

The training attracted numerous teachers from local elementary schools, who participated actively in discussions and hands-on activities. Educators expressed gratitude for the opportunity to enhance their professional skills and collaborate with colleagues.

“I appreciate this program as it provides valuable insights into modern teaching practices,” stated Kifli Paputungan,S.Pd, one of the participants. “I am excited to apply what I’ve learned to my own classroom.”

The event concluded with a Q&A session, where teachers had the opportunity to discuss their challenges and share experiences related to implementing the curriculum. Organizers are hopeful that this initiative will lead to ongoing professional development opportunities for teachers in the area.

As the Merdeka Curriculum continues to be adopted across Indonesia, initiatives like this highlight the critical role of teacher training in improving educational outcomes and fostering a positive learning environment for students in Lolayan. FS