Fun Celebration- National Children's Day 2014 in Wamena

Albert comes from Kuruwijaya. He wants to be a doctor someday. However, he has dropped out of school.

"I have no money to continue my education. Now, I work as a porter in the airport," he said.

Albert and his friend, Josim, are very enthusiastic and welcomed to join in during the Children's Daycompetition. Hopefully if he returns to school, he will join the next Children's Day celebration at his own school.

It is a hot sunny day in Wamena but the children are very excited to participate in the traditional games competition. The games included marbles, pion, sikke, skipping rope, bekel (western jacks), congklak (mancala-based board game), and others.

The celebration committee provided coupons to the children that they could exchange for snacks, beverages, books- soda pop was a popular item.

In group competition like soccer and volleyball, the children learned teamwork by creating teams with students from other schools. National Children's Day celebration also receives a positive response from teachers.

"I think this celebration should be conducted by our local government. But thanks to Wahana Visi Indonesia for initiating the celebration of National Children's Day so Maima children can be more confident because they are encouraged to make new friends. I hope this activity will be conducted again next year," said Joice, the headmistress of Maima primary school.

Besides traditional game competitions, there was also a quiz show for primary school students in Wamena. The aim was to increase the local wisdom-based education by using questions of culture and custom of the Central Mountains in Papua.

"Through these activities, it is hoped that the children will appreciate the values. So, it's not just about how to win the game," Joko Prasetyo, the chairman committee of National Children's Day 2014, said.

*Written by Frida Siregar, Team Leader Papeda Quest Project, Wahana Visi Indonesia at Jayawijaya operational office