Under The Shadow of Earthquakes
The morning sun and the enthusiastic smiles of children in Pingit Social Village (PSP) created a warm atmosphere when several students of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) came to dedicate themselves on September 29, 2024. This activity is part of a social program themed “Know the Earthquake: Stay Calm and Be Ready,” aims to educate Yogyakarta children about earthquake disaster mitigation.
By conveying basic theories about earthquakes and safety measures, children were invited to understand the process of tectonic plate movement This social teaching activity was carried out by students from Gadjah Mada University (UGM) through the Geographic Information Science Student Association (HMSaIG). This is part of the Community Social Department’s work program, which is in collaboration with Realino SPM. The theme raised is “Know Earthquakes: Stay Calm and Be Prepared.” This discussion aims to provide important education about earthquake disaster mitigation to the community, especially children in the Yogyakarta area who are at risk of earthquakes.
As we began the first session, the anxiety that had briefly settled was replaced by excitement. In the learning session, we taught the basic theories of earthquakes and the safety steps that must be taken and ensured that the children understood what was happening on Earth during an earthquake. Simulations are conducted to understand and deepen their knowledge that earthquakes can occur due to several factors, one of which is the movement of tectonic plates. The material is delivered in a fun and easily understandable way through engaging and educational earthquake simulation videos and props. Each session also becomes interactive and meaningful. The children were also invited to try moving the props to feel the impact of an earthquake. In addition to delivering the material, we organized games, simple quizzes, and shared meals as a bridge to build closeness with the children of Pingit. Every laugh and question from the children ignited our spirit to share.
This activity reminds us of Mahatma Gandhi’s saying, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” The saying emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the needs of others over personal interests. Through acts of service, we not only help others but also discover our own purpose and identity. As facilitators, we came intending to share knowledge, but what happened was quite the opposite. We learned a lot from the children of Pingit about perseverance, the spirit of learning, and the ability to adapt amidst limitations. They taught us that hope continues to grow even in difficult conditions, and education is a bridge to a better future.
In interactions with the Pingit community, it is felt that our presence as students is not merely to bring academic material but also to bring new hope. The children here, despite their limitations, show a great sense of curiosity. They not only learn how to deal with earthquakes but also learn that out there, there are many opportunities they can achieve through education.
In addition to providing earthquake education, this activity serves as an opportunity to get closer to the Pingit Learning Community Volunteers. We shared stories, listened to aspirations, and understood the problems they face daily. This strengthens our awareness of the importance of social care and solidarity. This dedication teaches that great changes start from small steps, as Malala Yousafzai said, “One child, one teacher, one pen, and one book can change the world.” Every effort we make to increase the community’s knowledge about disaster preparedness can have a significant impact on their safety in the future.
Kampung Pingit taught us that devotion is not just about what we can give but also about how we receive. Every small act with sincerity will have a more significant impact than we can imagine. We learned that serving is a calling, which, when carried out wholeheartedly, will bring deep happiness both to those being served and to those serving. Kampung Pingit will always be the place where we find meaning in every step of service.
Contributor: Students of Geographic Information Science of Gadjah Mada University
