Beyond the Classroom: The Eye-Opening Immersion Experience of SMA Global Prestasi Students in Wonosobo

The immersion program in Wonosobo, Central Java by the students of SMA Global Prestasi Class X in February 2023 was truly an unforgettable experience. The program was designed to provide a deep understanding of the local culture and way of life, and it did just that. The students stayed with local families who acted as their foster parents, participated in their daily activities, and learned about their customs and beliefs. 

The first thing that struck the students was the cool climate of Wonosobo as the place is located in the highlands of Central Java. The air was crisp and fresh, and the scenery was breathtaking. The students were paired up with local families, who welcomed them with open arms. They were treated as part of the family and were encouraged to participate in the day-to-day activities of their host families. 

One of the most eye-opening experiences for the students was participating in the Posyandu program, which provides health services to children and the elderly. The students were impressed by the dedication of the volunteers who worked tirelessly to provide medical care for those in need. They learned about the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and how Posyandu played a vital role in promoting the well-being of the community. 

Another activity that the students took part in was gardening. The students worked together with their host families to tend to their gardens and learn about the various plants and herbs that grow in the area. They learned about the local agricultural practices and how they have been passed down from generation to generation. This activity gave them a newfound appreciation for the hard work that goes into growing food and the importance of sustainable farming practices. 

One of the highlights of the immersion program was the soft skill activities, which included making a local snack called Petos and learning about coffee production. The students were taught how to make Petos by their host families, using ingredients that were readily available in the area. 

They also learned about the coffee production process, from selecting the coffee berries to roasting and grinding the beans. The students were amazed by the complexity of the coffee-making process and how much effort goes into producing a quality cup of coffee. The students also had the opportunity to learn about the local customs and traditions. They were introduced to the Javanese language and taught some basic phrases. They learned about the importance of respecting elders and how to perform traditional Javanese dances. They were also taught about the significance of religious tolerance in the area, where people of different religions live harmoniously. 

The students were deeply moved by the hospitality and kindness of their host families. They were treated like members of the family and were given a glimpse into the daily life of a typical Wonosobo family. They were impressed by the resilience and resourcefulness of the people in the area and how they worked together to overcome challenges. 

In conclusion, the immersion program in Wonosobo was an enriching experience that broadened the students' horizons and provided them with a deeper understanding of Indonesian culture. The students gained a newfound appreciation for the local customs and traditions and the hard work that goes into sustaining a community. The program also fostered a sense of respect and understanding towards people of different backgrounds and religions. The students returned home with a sense of gratitude for the richness of Indonesian culture.

------------------------------------------------------------------

Author : Andreas Eko Soponyono, S.Pd., B.Ed. 

Editor : Michael Mike P. Isla, B.E.Ed., Lady Yesisca S.I.Kom. 

Documentation : Andreas Eko Soponyono, S.Pd., B.Ed., and Committee of Local Immersion