Mr. Ogen, the 'silence breaker' from Gonga Pantai Village

Gonga Pantai is located along the shore, near a beautiful beach in North Halmahera, Maluku. It's a beautiful place to stay but the life of Gonga children is not as beautiful as its nature.

There were many children who still could not write and read. Most just played with their friends or followed their parents to the plantation.

To access Gonga Pantai village, it is very difficult because there is no public transportation.

There is no internet access, telephones, or even enough electricity. They depend on electricity based on a solar system donated by the government that now under repair.

There are no active teachers at Gonga Pantai state primary school. Many young people never get the chance to have a proper education. Even worse, many parents don't care if their children are not educated.

What to do?

Wahana Visi Indonesia is working to intervene through child activities, parent training, and advocacy with the local school and village government. Although it seems impossible, there is still hope.

Meet Ogen

Nahensius, 31, known in the community as Ogen, is clinging to hope for all programs conducted by Wahana Visi Indonesia.

Ogen, who is a farmer and elder of the church, voluntarily teaches the children although there is no payment for him. Every Monday afternoon, he teaches students in the Child Learning Group (KBA) in his village. Some of the students can now read and write!

"In my village, there are no parents or adults who are willing to make a better future for younger generation. So, if it's not me, who else will care? These children are our hope. I want them to have brighter future. I want to teach and look after them," said Ogen, explaining his motivation why he teaches the students voluntarily.

Ogen's commitment to teach children has opened another opportunity- he was appointed as honorary teacher in his village. Now every morning, he teaches the students.

An example of Ogen's success work is Marsanda, 7, who is now able to read and write well.

 

The success of Marsanda and other children is proof that there is still hope for Gonga Pantai's children. Let's reflect on and celebrate Ogen's work to make a better life for children.