Photo : A team of girls showing their moves at YPK Harapan Selil Elementary’s dance competition, held for National Education Day
MERAUKE – National Education Day celebrations aren’t found only in big cities. Such festivities have made their way to rural Papua, down to YPK Harapan Selil Elementary in Ulilin District, Merauke Regency. On Tuesday (4/30), the school organized a number of fun contests for its students to enjoy.
There were traditional dance and drawing competitions, a sprint race, and a cultural fashion show. Contestants lent a cheery atmosphere to the three-day function, giving their all to win and take home prizes.
Competitive events bring joy and offer benefits for children’s development, such as improved confidence, courage, and sportsmanship.
Merauke-based oil palm plantation firm Tunas Sawa Erma Group (TSE) Group acknowledges these advantages, said Daniel Sim Ayomi, representing the company. TSE Group was the event’s sponsor and prize supplier, which bought the gifts to spice things up.
In his greetings, Ayomi encouraged the audience to study hard. He believed committed students would grow up to become an intelligent, innovative generation and “the future of the nation”. The deputy general manager then told contestants to do their best. “Have fun competing!”
Smiles adorned the faces of the young participants, including Daina, who’s on one of the dance teams. She felt giddy to be joining with her friends and getting first place.
TSE Group’s deputy general manager Daniel Sim Ayomi presents a winner with a prize
“I’m really, really proud of the children. Through contests like dance competitions or traditional fashion shows, they get to learn to perform in public. For better events in the future, we hope the company provides us with continued support,” said a teacher, Agatha Gebze.
Through positive activities, Tunas Sawa Erma Group will always strive to raise Papuan kids as the nation’s well-educated, “golden” generation. (PR)
