SMP Muhammadiyah 8 Bandung
SMP Muhammadiyah Bandung is one of the schools that has implemented peace values using the 12 Basic Peace Values (BPV) module from PeaceGen to cultivate students' character education. This school has implemented one of PeaceGen's programs, Breaking Down the Walls (BDW), which brings together students from different backgrounds for visits to their respective schools. The visiting school, in this case, is SMP Kristen Yahya Bandung.
Why Does SMP Muhammadiyah 8 Bandung Implement the BDW Program?
Both schools initiated this joint visit program in response to the current curriculum, which may feel limited in imparting peace values to students. The program effectively addresses prejudices that may arise due to differences in students' minds.
Cepi Aunilah, the Deputy Head of Student Affairs at SMP Muhammadiyah 8 Bandung, explained that this program was intentionally designed to give students direct experiences with diversity.
He believes that his school shares a mission with SMP Kristen Yahya: to shape students' character so they can practice love for peace.
"Now, the challenge is very heavy. There is a lot of information on social media that can be divided. But if the children understand the values of peace, they will realize, oh, it's not like this," said Cepi.
What Is the Impact of the BDW Program at SMP Muhammadiyah 8 Bandung?
The impact of implementing the 12 NDP modules through the BDW program at SMP Muhammadiyah 8 Bandung is significant. Students who initially had prejudices against students from other religions can be directly classified, as Sarah Huwaidah, one of the students at SMP 8 Muhammadiyah Bandung, conveyed.
"At first, I thought people from other religions, especially Christians, were arrogant. But it turns out my prejudice was wrong. They are nice. We even chat and are still friends," said Sarah when talking to Kumparan a few days ago.
SMP 8 Muhammadiyah Bandung and SMK Kristen Yahya Bandung are examples of how educational curricula on diversity and tolerance are taught to every student.
