SMK1 students benefit from health program

Sun, 03/23/2008 3:05 PM  |  Discover

The School Health Initiative (UKS) program at SMK1 state vocational high school in Sekayu, of South Sumatra's Musi Banyuasin regency, has given a positive impact to its students.

Not without exception is Riantini Rusmina, a third-year student pursuing the Sales course.

According to this young woman, who was born in Makarti Jaya on Dec. 19, 1990, the school prioritizes health and cleanliness through its "Friday Clean-up" activity. She said the UKS program also allowed her to create a similar program outside campus, particularly at her boarding house, and in her hometown of Makarti Jaya village.

Along with her parents and other relatives, Riantini has learned how to make compost at SMK1, and has implemented an environmental program at her home. In addition, she has tended to several kampong gardens in Makarti Jaya, which had long been neglected. These gardens are now lush and green, and have become abundant with plants and flowers.

"It's not finished yet, because (the program) is still new. But the results are already enjoyable and pleasant to look at, and have given new spirit, because until now, my village didn't know how to make compost," said Riantini, who has been a top-ranking student since her first year at SMK1.

Riantini plans to further her studies at the National Administration Institute (STAN), where she hopes to learn how to teach Sales subjects and systems.

As with Riantini, Risna Dewi also admitted that she had gained many benefits through the UKS program, and that the program had complemented her training in the Hotel course.

"The UKS program at this school has made me make hygiene a priority, not only around school, but also at home," said Risna.

According to her, the Hotel course prioritizes cleanliness in line with the UKS program. While she does not follow the program directly, she has already applied the healthy lifestyle and environmental model in her daily activities.

"At the very least, (I've tried it) at my boarding house and those of my classmates, so that we can enjoy a comfortable and attractive environment while we are at home," said Risna, who was born in Napal village on Nov. 23, 1991. Risna was a participant in the national UKS Jamboree, held last year in Malang.

The results of her efforts at creating a healthy environment are undeniable to any visitor to her boarding house. Unlike Riantini, Risna has not yet tried making compost, she is determined to try out the compost produced by the school.

"When I have the time, I'll take some home to my kampong to use there. Although it isn't yet routine, we can already see the results and for now, I'm satisfied with it," she said.

-- JP/Khairul Saleh

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