Kabar Nusantara - A group of Indonesian university students recently carried out a community-based education programme in Pattani, southern Thailand, focusing on improving Arabic speaking skills among local teachers. The initiative was designed to support classroom learning while encouraging confidence in daily language use.
The programme took place at Pondok Darul Barakah from November 14 to 20 and involved ten female students from the University of Darussalam (UNIDA) Gontor in Indonesia. Working alongside Arabic language teachers at elementary and secondary levels, the students conducted training sessions aimed at enhancing *maharatul kalam*, or Arabic oral communication skills.
According to teachers involved in the programme, opportunities to practise spoken Arabic remain limited outside formal lessons. This often affects teachers’ confidence in encouraging students to communicate actively in Arabic during class. The community service activities were developed to respond directly to these challenges through practical and participatory learning methods.
The programme included workshops on interactive teaching strategies, classroom mentoring, and the use of simple learning media such as flashcards, vocabulary cards, and educational games. An “Arabic Corner” was also introduced as a dedicated space where teachers and students could practise conversation, role-play everyday situations, and engage in informal discussion using Arabic.
One participating teacher noted that the activities helped create a more relaxed and supportive learning atmosphere. “The programme encouraged us to speak Arabic more confidently, not only during lessons but also in daily interactions,” the teacher said.
In addition to language development, the programme provided opportunities for cultural exchange between Indonesian students and the local Pattani community. Through shared teaching practices and daily interaction, both sides gained a better understanding of each other’s educational environments.
The initiative demonstrates how community-based education programmes can support teachers while strengthening cultural and educational connections across borders. By focusing on practical language use and collaboration, the programme contributes to ongoing efforts to improve the quality of education in Pattani.
Redaksi: Sevi Rifka Pradita
University of Darussalam (UNIDA) Gontor
Indonesia
