In Bekasi, Al-Siddiq International Secondary School supports the policy of the Bekasi City Education Office to implement Distance Learning (PJJ) as a precautionary measure to protect the school community from potential exposure to volcanic ash following the eruption of Anak Krakatau.
The policy is implemented in accordance with Circular Letter of the Bekasi City Education Office Number 400.3/6/DISDIK.SER, as part of a collective effort to safeguard the safety and health of students and the entire school community.
Exposure to volcanic ash requires particular attention because its particles can affect health, especially the respiratory system, eyes, and skin. Volcanic ash can irritate the respiratory tract and cause symptoms such as coughing, irritation of the nose and throat, and shortness of breath. Fine particles can also penetrate deeper into the lungs and cause inflammation. In addition, ash can cause red, sore, itchy, and watery eyes, as well as skin irritation. Children are among those who require particular attention when exposed to volcanic ash.
In response to this situation, Al-Siddiq International Secondary School is taking part in preventive measures by conducting lessons online. In this way, students can continue their education without having to participate in face-to-face learning activities on the school premises while the Distance Learning policy is in effect.
Distance Learning Begins with Dhikr and a Religious Talk
Interestingly, Distance Learning at Al-Siddiq International Secondary School does not focus solely on academic achievement. The programme begins with collective dhikr as a form of spiritual effort, while also helping students develop a sense of calm and strengthen their closeness to Allah SWT.
Following the collective dhikr, the programme continues with religious talks featuring two important topics aimed at supporting students’ character development.
The first session is delivered by Mr Abdul Azis, S.Pd., entitled “Three Pillars for Building Good Character”. The session provides students with an understanding of the importance of developing good character as a foundation for life, both in their relationship with Allah SWT, their relationships with others, and in fulfilling their responsibilities as students.
The next religious talk is delivered by Ustaz Ahmad Toha, entitled “Renewing Our Intention”. The session reminds students that every activity, including learning, should be based on a good and sincere intention. With the right intention, learning becomes more than an activity aimed at achieving academic results; it can also become an act of worship and a process of developing into a better person.
Both religious talks provide valuable spiritual nourishment for the students, while strengthening character education and religious understanding, which are important elements of education at Al-Siddiq International Secondary School.
Continuing with Qur’an and Academic Learning
Following the religious activities, Distance Learning continues with Qur’an learning. This forms part of the school’s effort to maintain a balance between academic education and Islamic education.
Students then participate in a range of academic lessons, including:
English
Civic
Islamic Studies
ICT
Although the lessons are conducted online, the essence of education and learning continues to be maintained. Teachers continue to deliver learning materials, guide students, and ensure that students are able to participate in the learning process effectively.
The implementation of Distance Learning demonstrates that particular circumstances do not have to become a barrier to the school’s commitment to providing educational services. Through online learning, the school can continue its academic programme while giving students an opportunity to learn in a safer environment.
Protecting Safety, Sustaining Education
The implementation of Distance Learning at Al-Siddiq International Secondary School is a clear expression of the school’s commitment to making students’ safety and health a priority without compromising the continuity of their education.
The school is not only taking steps to protect students from potential exposure to volcanic ash, but also ensuring that, while at home, they continue to receive academic education, Qur’anic guidance, character development, and religious instruction.
In this way, Distance Learning is not simply an opportunity to study from home. It also becomes a valuable moment to teach students about taking appropriate measures, discipline, concern for health, resilience, and the importance of drawing closer to Allah SWT in every circumstance.
Al-Siddiq International Secondary School remains committed to providing holistic education by developing knowledge, building character, and safeguarding the wellbeing of its students.
“Protecting safety is an effort, sustaining education is a trust, and the two can go hand in hand.”
Available next action:
Create a downloadable PDF file here in this chat containing the finalized decisions and immediate actions above
By Retno Suzanne Handayani, Lc, M.Pd