Sunday, 13 September 2026
MEDAN | INDATANEWS.COM - Character building is an important foundation for developing children's morals, ethics and positive personalities, enabling them to face the various challenges of the times. Character development does not take place only at school, but is also shaped by families and the habits taught and practiced in everyday life.
This was conveyed by Dharma Wanita Persatuan (DWP) of North Sumatra Province adviser Titiek Sugiharti during her participation in a character-building workshop for students of senior high schools and vocational high schools (SMA/SMK) under the supervision of DWP North Sumatra. The event was held on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at the SMA Dharma Pancasila Medan school grounds, Jalan Dr. Mansyur No. 71, Medan.
At the event, Titiek reminded students that education should not be focused solely on academic abilities, report card grades or achievements in particular fields. In her view, education must also aim to shape individuals with strong character who are able to apply positive values in their daily lives.
"Education is not only about academic abilities, report card grades or achievements in certain fields. It is about much more. Education must be able to shape individuals who have strong character, firm moral values, a sense of responsibility, discipline, independence, compassion and integrity," she said.
On the occasion, Titiek delivered five important messages to students of the SMA/SMK schools under the supervision of DWP North Sumatra.
The first message concerned honesty. She encouraged students to make honesty a habit, emphasizing that honesty is the foundation of trust in relationships with others.
Titiek urged students to speak the truth even when they face difficult situations. She said that developing the habit of being honest in words and actions from an early age would become an important foundation for their educational journey and future lives in society.
The second message was about discipline. Titiek stressed that discipline does not simply mean arriving at school on time. Students must also be disciplined in studying, managing their time, following rules, and carrying out assigned duties and responsibilities.
She also reminded students to always respect their parents and teachers. According to Titiek, respect is an important part of character building because both the family and school play significant roles in shaping children's attitudes and personalities.
As her fourth message, Titiek encouraged students to develop self-confidence and the determination to achieve. She urged them not to limit their dreams because of perceived weaknesses. Instead, they should continue learning, making efforts, praying and maintaining their motivation even after experiencing setbacks.
"Do not be afraid to set high goals as long as you are willing to learn, pray, work hard and not give up easily. Technological skills offer many benefits, but they must be used responsibly. Use technology to create, learn and further develop your own skills," she said.
Her fifth message concerned the use of technology and social media. Titiek called on students to use technological developments wisely and responsibly. Technology, she said, should serve as a tool for learning, creativity and skills development rather than being used merely for entertainment.
Titiek explained that character building does not happen overnight. Character develops through small habits that are consistently practiced in everyday life.
She cited simple habits such as being honest, greeting others, maintaining cleanliness, being disciplined and taking responsibility. When practiced consistently, she said, such habits can shape attitudes and personality traits that become firmly embedded in a person's character.
"You are the next generation of this country, the future of North Sumatra and Indonesia. Therefore, make the most of every opportunity to learn," she said.
In Titiek's view, the school years are an important period for students to develop both their abilities and character. The opportunity to receive an education must therefore be taken seriously so that students not only acquire knowledge, but also develop strong attitudes and integrity.
Principal of SMK Dharma Pancasila Endar Muda Dongoran emphasized that character-building activities play an important role for students, particularly as preparation for their future educational journey.
According to Endar, outdoor character-building activities provide students with a different learning experience. In addition to breaking the monotony of classroom learning, such activities can also support students' mental and physical development.
Endar expressed hope that similar activities could be held continuously so they would provide greater benefits for students' development. Joint activities such as workshops, he said, could also provide a space for young people to develop their motivation and social skills.
"We hope that activities like these can continue to be held in the future to increase motivation, develop social skills, and support the physical and mental development of students in a holistic manner," he said in closing.
The character-building workshop was also attended by DWP North Sumatra Chairwoman Boya Yanti Gultom, Chairwoman of the DWP North Sumatra Foundation Grace Prayanti Noventina Simamora, members of DWP North Sumatra, students from schools under DWP supervision, as well as teachers and educational staff.
Through the event, DWP North Sumatra continues to promote character building alongside academic education. Strengthening honesty, discipline, responsibility, respect and self-confidence, along with the responsible use of technology, is expected to provide students with an important foundation for their future. (IDNC)
REPORTER: Ahmad Zulfikar | EDITOR: Fik Sagala
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