Bekasi Environmental Agency Promotes Adiwiyata Programme During School Orientation
The Bekasi Regency Environmental Agency (DLH) is capitalising on the School Environment Introduction Period (MPLS) to instil environmental awareness in new students. The socialisation activity was held at SMP Plus El-Wafa in Waringin Jaya Village, Kedungwaringin District, as part of a strategic effort to build the character of a young generation that cares about nature from an early age through the Adiwiyata Programme.
DLH Bekasi Public Relations officer Dedi Kurniawan explained that the material delivered to the new students focused on shaping environmentally caring behaviour and culture. He stated that educational institutions are the most effective places to sow positive habits expected to carry over into daily life outside school.
“We provide material related to environmental behaviour and culture so that new students can act and behave wisely towards the environment. This habituation starts from the school environment so as to create a lush and eco-friendly classroom and school atmosphere,” Dedi said in a statement on Wednesday (15/7).
During the socialisation session, the students were equipped with various practical knowledge, including waste sorting, composting, water and energy conservation, and greening activities. These materials are expected to become the foundation for students to consistently apply an eco-friendly lifestyle.
The Adiwiyata Programme is a national movement aimed at improving the quality of the environment in schools through the formation of a culture of care and environmentally friendly behaviour. This programme is not merely a local initiative but has a strong legal basis.
Dedi expressed hope that SMP Plus El-Wafa can consistently follow the stages of the Adiwiyata Programme to become an environmentally qualified school. “Our hope is that a culture of environmental care truly grows among the school community,” he added.
Philosophically, the name Adiwiyata is derived from Sanskrit. The word ‘Adi’ means great, good, and ideal, while ‘Wiyata’ means a place to acquire knowledge, norms, and ethics. The combination creates the concept of a school as an ideal place to shape the character of human beings who are responsible towards the environment.
Dedi stressed that the essence of this programme is not merely to pursue formal recognition. “The Adiwiyata Programme is not just about chasing awards, but about building the character of a generation that cares about the environment and is capable of being an example in society,” he asserted.
The success of this programme heavily depends on the involvement of all school elements, from the principal, teachers, and education staff to the school committee and the students themselves. This synergy among elements is the key to creating a clean, healthy, comfortable, and sustainable learning environment.