Banda Education Festival 2018 Unites Steps for Education in Maluku’s Outermost Islands (PART 1)

The journey to the Banda Education Festival began with a six-hour cruise to Neira, followed by a one-hour motorboat ride until the Education Festival Team finally arrived at Ay Island. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the hospitality of the locals and the warm smiles of our respective mothers and fathers. At this festival, we didn’t just come and go; we lived with the community and became part of their lives.

For the next three days, Ay Island became a shared space for learning, learning, and sharing. On the first two days, various classes were held, including Literacy, Comics and Doodles, Let’s Share Art, Education as a Joint Movement, Clean and Healthy Living, Fun English, Air Rocket, and Financial Champion. Limitations were no barrier. Without access to electricity during the day and with the considerable distance to school, the enthusiasm for learning was even stronger. Children, parents, and the community attended with equal enthusiasm.

Meanwhile, the rest of the Banda Education Festival team arrived in Neira after a six-hour journey by speedboat. This long journey transformed good intentions into concrete action. The volunteer teams who will be sharing on Ay, Hatta, and Sjahrir Islands come from various communities, including Kreatifator Indonesia, the Banjar City Reading Room Community, the Thousand Books Movement, the English Club Team, the Maluku Science Club, and Dr. Dwayne.

For many volunteers, this is their first time setting foot in this region. Behind their happy smiles lies persistent effort and a long history. Banda welcomes us with its natural beauty, and the community welcomes us with open hearts. Behind the scenes, many hands are working to ensure this festival truly provides maximum benefit to the community.

The spirit of Siwalima is once again palpable. Working together for a Smart Banda and a Smart Maluku.