Nasyiatul Aisyiyah Lampung: Transformed Through Peace and Diversity Program

Lampung, Indonesia – The regional leadership of Nasyiatul Aisyiyah (NA) Lampung, an autonomous organization under Muhammadiyah, has undergone a significant transformation following its participation in the "Breaking Down the Wall" (BDW) program by PeaceGen. Previously focused on conventional programs like digital literacy and parenting classes, NA Lampung's involvement in BDW has broadened its horizons, particularly concerning religious diversity, tolerance, and religious moderation.

The impact of the BDW program was evident during a recent "BDW Day" event in Lampung, which brought together students from SMP Xaverius 3, SMP Muhammadiyah 2, and SMP Gajah Mada. The event showcased the peace projects initiated by these schools, inspired by the BDW framework.

Presentation of the FIDS Waste Management Project Winner from SMP Xaverius 3 Bandar Lampung

Kak Meti Puspitasari, Head of Advocacy and Public Policy at NA Lampung, explained that prior to BDW, diversity issues were not a primary focus of their advocacy efforts. However, their engagement with PeaceGen, including an intensive bootcamp, provided new understanding and perspectives. "We have become more open to issues of religious diversity, religious tolerance, and religious moderation. It turns out there is a lot of advocacy needed in these areas," she stated.

Participating in the BDW program marked NA Lampung's first direct intervention in schools regarding diversity issues. Previously, they had not formally conducted training for teachers and students on this topic. Four NA Lampung members attended the BDW Bootcamp in Bandung. While some had prior experience in training and facilitation through other organizations, the BDW Bootcamp organized by PeaceGen was deemed extraordinary and unforgettable. According to Kak Meti, the clear curriculum, effective ARKA (Action, Reflection, Knowledge, Application) method, and engaging activities made the project management learning experience highly memorable.

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Award from the Head of PWNA Lampung to the Representative of SMP Xaverius 3 Bandar Lampung

The enthusiasm within NA Lampung for participating in the program was palpable. Nur Laili Husna, a member of NA Lampung, strongly advocated for their involvement to break down interfaith prejudices starting at the school level. Full support also came from the regional leader of NA Lampung, Prof. Dr. Sudarman, M. Ag. A small team was formed and regularly discussed their proposal via the Campaign application and subsequent steps in building a peace project.

A Role Play Performance on Learning to Know Friends of Different Faiths from SMP Muhammadiyah 2 Lampung

Initially, the NA Lampung team believed their participation would be limited to campaigning and fundraising through the Campaign application. However, the opportunity to attend the BDW Bootcamp in Bandung came as a pleasant surprise, igniting a renewed spirit for initiating peace projects in schools.

Representatives of NA Lampung Participating in the BDW Community Bootcamp in Bandung

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Despite initial surprise at the program extending beyond the Campaign application, the NA Lampung team felt challenged and motivated to continue with the BDW program. As a provincial-level organization, they were confident in their ability to carry out activities beneficial to the interfaith community, especially considering Lampung Province's ranking as the ninth most intolerant region in Indonesia in recent years.

Presentation of the FIDS Bullying Prevention Project at SMP Gajah Mada Bandar Lampung

The primary challenge faced by NA Lampung in planning and implementing the school programs was the limited human resources, particularly time. From the initial team of six, one member had to withdraw, leaving five members to carry the project through. Nevertheless, these five members remained solid and determined to complete the activities to the best of their abilities.

PWNA Lampung together with interfaith leaders in Lampung during the BDW Day Interactive Dialogue on Religious Moderation

The PeaceGen program has had a significant positive impact on NA Lampung, particularly in project management. The materials provided during the BDW Bootcamp enhanced the team's skills in administration, knowledge related to diversity issues, and the ability to overcome various obstacles. Kak Meti specifically noted the benefits in financial management, more detailed reporting, and understanding of risk prevention and mitigation. The use of online platforms like Google Drive and Google Sheets for synchronized reporting was also a new and efficient experience for the team.

One of the most memorable materials from PeaceGen for NA Lampung was the ARKA method of delivering training. This method was considered engaging and prevented participants from becoming bored, unlike the training methods they typically used. NA Lampung has already implemented the ARKA method in their peace project and the BDW Day event titled "Interactive Dialogue on Religious Moderation." Furthermore, NA Lampung plans to adopt the ARKA method in their future training sessions.

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Kak Meti during an interview with PeaceGen in Lampung

Although PeaceGen's direct support will conclude, NA Lampung is confident in its potential to continue similar activities independently. With a significant number of Muhammadiyah schools and a broad network, they are optimistic about conducting socialization on the 12 Basic Values of Peace. Funding models can be discussed with schools, where schools can provide logistical support, while NA Lampung provides facilitators and materials. NA Lampung is even prepared to offer training free of charge if feasible.

Witnessing the positive impact and valuable experiences gained, NA Lampung is highly interested in participating in similar projects in the future. They are increasingly motivated and open-minded, and ready to collaborate with various organizations to carry out activities that benefit the community. The transformation experienced by NA Lampung through the PeaceGen program has become a valuable asset for their continued contribution to promoting peace and diversity in Lampung.